JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As temperatures heat up, you might want to think twice when stepping out the door for a walk with your dog in the middle of the day. The sun can heat the pavement and other surfaces to dangerous levels meaning burned or injured paws, which we all would like to avoid this summer!
An air temperature of just 90F can heat the sand up to 120F, the concrete up to 140F, and pavement up to 155F. Even a casual walk around the block with these conditions is enough to cause second degree burns.
To keep you pet out of harm's way, it's best to walk them before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m. With the longer days during the summer, you'll have plenty of daylight so no need to worry there!
If you are out in the middle of the day, you can always check things for yourself. Do a quick check by placing your bare hand or foot on the ground for at least 5 seconds. If you find yourself pulling away or notice it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your pet. It's as simple as that.
You can also walk in the grass instead and avoid walking in the middle of the street. When it is comfortable enough outside, it's not a bad idea to walk your dogs on the sidewalk to help them build calluses. This makes their skin thicker and less prone to burns.
Veterinarians say a dog with paw burns may show signs of limping, blisters, or redness. If you are worried about your pet, you should contact your veterinarian.
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