Most people don’t even think about how hot pavement could affect their dog’s paws, even though it’s a huge problem that can cause serious burns.
If you’ve ever experienced being barefoot on hot asphalt, you know that it’s almost impossible to stand on it for more than a few moments without burning your feet. Why would it be any different for our furry friends? Most people don’t even think about how hot pavement could affect their dog’s paws, even though it’s a huge problem that can cause serious burns. But there are ways to avoid these burns. Read on to see what they are.
Walk on the Grass
A quick and simple fix is to walk your pup on the grass. Dog parks are great places for this, as they are usually enclosed spaces composed of grass. If it has just rained, wet grass can feel great on your dog’s paws. But, usually, there are grass patches next to sidewalks or pavement that you can direct your dog towards. If it’s there, it’s likely the dog will gravitate towards walking on that, anyway.
Pavement Temperature Tests
Use yourself for the experiment. Lay the back of your hand on the pavement; if you can’t keep it there for five seconds without feeling like you’ll be burned, then it’s too hot for your dog. It’s important that you experience this for yourself, as it will make it easier for you to see when pavement is unsafe.
Wait Until Dark
If possible, wait until the sun goes down to walk your dog. When the sun isn’t beating down on the pavement, it’s likely that it’s safe for your dog’s paws. You could also wait until after a rainstorm, as rain will cool down the hot pavement.
Dog Booties
There are actually dog booties for sale that will protect your dog’s feet! While they make look a little silly, it’s way better than forcing your dog to suffer by walking on the hot pavement. Make sure you pay close attention to whether or not your dog needs booties on your walk, due to any kind of condition that would require you to walk across hot pavement.
PTG Enterprises can answer all of your pavement questions.
PTG stands out as an industry leader due to our methodology of pavement management planning: a systematic, long-term approach to managing and extending the life of your pavement.
We will work with you to develop a comprehensive strategy to extend and maximize the lifespan of your asphalt and concrete surfaces and care for all aspects of your grounds which keep them beautiful and dry, including storm drains.
If you have any questions about winter asphalt maintenance, please contact PTG Enterprises today by calling 410-636-8777, or click here today! You can also check us out on Facebook and Twitter.
Tags: hot asphalt, hot pavement, pavement
