Summer can be a great time to get outside and have some fun. However, you need to make sure you’re paying attention to your dogs' needs during this time. If they spend too much time with their paws on a hot surface, they could get burned. At All Care Animal Clinic in West Palm Beach, FL, we want to help you keep your dog safe. Here are some ways to protect your dogs' paws this summer.
Build Calluses When It’s Cool
If you start early, you can help your dogs build up a protective layer of thick skin on their paws before the hot summer weather. While this won’t keep them entirely safe, it can make them better able to tolerate hot surfaces. This can be useful when crossing hot pavement is unavoidable. Simply take them for walks on the pavement when the weather is still cool enough to do so. This will build up the calluses and make it easier to handle hot temperatures.
Buy Them Protective Gear
Another good option for protecting your dogs' paws is purchasing dog paw protection. Socks or booties can add another layer in between their feet and the hot pavement. Your dogs might not like it, or they might be indifferent. If you can get them to wear paw protection, you’ll be able to travel more freely without worrying about burning their paw pads. Your veterinarian can give you suggestions for the best ones to buy.
Don’t Walk Your Dogs at Mid-Day
Even with dog paw protection, your dogs might still get burned by hot pavement. The most effective way to protect their paws is to avoid walking them when the temperature is hottest. This is at mid-day, when the sun is high in the sky. Instead, take them for walks in the mornings or evenings. You might still need extra protection, but it won’t be quite as hot.
Summer protection is essential. At All Care Animal Clinic in West Palm Beach, FL, our veterinarian is here to help. Call us to make an appointment today!