Dudley's Thoughts: Protecting your Dog's Feet from Hot Pavement

With the hot summer weather upon us, please keep in mind your dog's paws when walking him or her. Blacktop on driveways, streets and parking lots (and even sand) get extremely hot and can cause burns to the pads on us dogs' paws.

If the temperature is too hot, as we have had many days so far this summer, try to avoid blacktop pavements. You may also touch the pavement for 7 seconds. If it feels too hot for you to touch, it is too hot for us dogs.

If you think your doggie is suffering from burns, seek medical attention. Some signs may include blisters, loose flaps of skin and red, ulcerated patches. According to the Michigan Humane Society, treat minor burns by applying antibacterial wash and cover the paw with a loose bandage. For serious burns, visit your vet immediately. There are several items to protect your four-legged friend's pads, such as paw wax and paw protectors.

Heat exhaustion too is high at this time of year. According to the Michigan Humane Society, if your dog is experiencing rapid panting and lethargy and has been subjected to extreme temperatures, he may be suffering from heat exhaustion. Other symptoms may include restlessness, excessive thirst, dark tongue, rapid heartbeat, vomiting or lack of coordination. Michigan Humane Society also recommends that if you notice any of these symptoms, immerse your dog in cold water (if you are unable to immerse him, pour cold water over him) and contact your veterinarian immediately.

So, remember to , have lots of water handy, and keep him or her indoors as much as possible when the heat index is extremely high.

What best practices to you take to protect your pets in the summer heat? Have you tried pet wax to protect your four-legged friend's pads? Share your recommendations with the community below.