The Hidden Summer Hazard Beneath Your Dog’s Feet
Hot pavement, beach sand and pool decks can reach dangerous temperatures in the Lowcountry sun. Here’s how to protect your dog’s paws before every summer outing.
Story by Bailey Gilliam
Key Points
● Use the 7-Second Back-of-Hand Test before every walk: if the surface is too hot to comfortably touch for seven seconds, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.
● Warning signs of burnt paw pads include limping, excessive licking, redness, blistering, peeling skin and signs of discomfort after time outdoors.
● Protect dogs by walking during cooler morning or evening hours, avoiding midday heat, choosing grassy routes and using protective booties when needed.
July is typically the hottest month of the year in the Lowcountry, and while many dog owners remember to pack water for summer outings, they often overlook a hidden danger: hot surfaces that can burn a dog’s paws in seconds. Sidewalks, asphalt and driveways absorb heat throughout the day, but they are not the only hazards. Beach sand, pool decks, boat docks, patios, artificial turf and wooden decks can all become dangerously hot under direct sun. Before heading outside, try the 7-Second Back-of-Hand Test. Place the back of your hand on the surface for seven seconds. If it feels too hot to keep your hand there comfortably, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Unlike us, dogs have no shoes protecting their feet, and their paw pads can blister or burn quickly when exposed to extreme heat.
Warning signs of burnt paws
Even on what feels like a normal summer day, surfaces exposed to direct sunlight can become dangerously hot. If your dog has been walking on hot surfaces, watch for these signs:
- Limping or hesitation while walking
- Constant licking or chewing at the paws
- Red, irritated or darkened paw pads
- Blistering or peeling skin
- Visible damage or missing portions of paw pad tissue
- Signs of pain or discomfort after being outside
Prevention strategies
Keep summer outings safe with a few simple precautions:
- Walk early or late. Morning and evening hours are much cooler.
- Avoid midday heat. Surfaces heat rapidly between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Stay on grass when possible. Natural surfaces tend to stay cooler.
- Test every surface. Sand, pool decks and docks can be just as dangerous as pavement.
- Use protective booties. Especially helpful for beach trips and long outdoor adventures.
- Plan shorter outings. Less time on hot surfaces reduces risk.
