Protecting your pet's paws in summer | Image: Unsplash
If summer is already starting to feel too hot for you, it's probably becoming even more unbearable for your furry friend. It's essential to take extra precautions to protect your pet's delicate paws from the heat and dangers of the season. With a few easy tips, tricks, and hacks, you can keep your pet's paws safe, healthy, and happy all summer long.
Avoid hot surfaces
During the summer, pavement, asphalt, and sand can become scorching hot and cause painful burns on the soles of your pet's paws. To protect your furry friend from heat-related injuries, avoid walking on hot surfaces during the hottest parts of the day. Go for early morning or evening walks when temperatures are cooler, or stick to shady areas or grassy surfaces whenever possible.
foot protection program
Invest in paw protection products like paw wax or paw balm to create a barrier between your pet's paws and hot surfaces. These products provide a moisturizing and protective effect, preventing burns, cracks, and irritation caused by heat, rough terrain, or abrasive surfaces. To keep your pet's paws well protected and comfortable, apply paw wax or balm before outdoor activities.
keep feet hydrated
Just like humans, pets can become dehydrated during hot weather, causing their paw pads to become dry and cracked. Make sure your furry friend stays hydrated by providing plenty of fresh water and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. To keep your pet's paw pads soft, supple, and moisturized all summer long, consider adding a pet-safe paw moisturizer to your grooming routine.
trim leg hair
Long hair between your pet's paw pads can trap heat, moisture, and debris, increasing the risk of irritation and infection. Keep your pet's paw hair trimmed short to prevent mats and reduce the chance of paw-related problems. Using pet-safe scissors or clippers, carefully trim any excess hair around the paw pad, being careful not to get too close to the skin.
Practice foot care
Incorporate regular paw care into your pet's grooming routine to keep your pet's paws clean, healthy, and free of debris. After outdoor activities, gently wipe your pet's paws with a damp cloth to remove dirt, sand, and other debris. Check for cuts, scratches, and signs of inflammation, and contact your veterinarian if you have any abnormalities or concerns.
