Paw pad burns are a potential risk at the height of summer that most pet owners rarely take into consideration when planning their holidays or outdoor escapades. While it may be a lesser-known condition compared to other dog-related problems, this does not necessarily mean that it is any less serious. Here’s how you can prevent pad burns this summer.
1. Invest in Dog Shoes and Booties
A set of well-fitting puppy boots can prevent accidental searing and singing of your furry pal’s feet, especially when they are trotting on hot pavements and walkways. You can find a good fit for your beloved poodle online or can even go a step further and make a set yourself during your free time. And although they may not necessarily warm up to them outrightly, they will appreciate the gesture the next time you are strolling or hiking outdoors on blistering hot surfaces.
2. Actively Avoid Unshaded Pavements
Make a conscious effort to avoid walking your pet on unshaded concrete pavements and asphalts this summer. Instead, go for dirt and grassy paths if possible to reduce the chances of burning themselves and searing their paw pads. You see, your dog’s paws may be primarily made of hardened and specialized keratin to protect his tendons, but they are still far from being shoes. Trotting on scalding hot surfaces can inflict untold damage on them, especially if it is done habitually over a prolonged period.
3. Be on the Lookout for Paw Pad Burns
There are several tell-tale signs that your dog has recently suffered serious pad burns. They include the likes of; refusing/unwillingness to run or walk quickly, discoloured pads, reddened feet, visibly inflamed blisters,. excessive biting/ licking of feet, missing parts or pads that are flaking off etc. Make sure to get into contact with your local veterinary office immediately as soon as you notice these symptoms.
4. Keep Your Dog Indoors During the Hottest Time of the Day
Walk your poodle before dawn or after dusk when the temperatures are much cooler rather than in the middle of the day. What’s more, keep your dog in grassy patches and carry them over hot surfaces when you are out hiking or just strolling in the summer. Most importantly, remember that if the surface is too hot to touch with your bare hands/palm, then it most probably will burn your poodle’s paw pads too.
References: Homeward Bounds, PetMD, Betterpet
