Paw Care in the Summer: Protecting Your Pup’s Feet from Heat and Harm
When the sun comes out, we all feel the heat, including your pup. While we often focus on keeping coats trimmed and our furry friends well-hydrated in summer, there’s one area that can easily be overlooked: their paws.
Hot Pavements, Tender Paws
Your dog’s paw pads may look tough, but they’re surprisingly sensitive. Pavements, patios, and sand can heat up quickly and cause burns or discomfort, especially on very hot days. If you wouldn’t walk barefoot on it, chances are, neither should your dog.
Quick Tip: Try the “7-second rule” — place the back of your hand on the ground. If it’s too hot to hold for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your pup.
The Importance of Regular Paw Checks
In the summer, paws go through a lot: heat, rough terrain, and the occasional splash in less-than-clean water. Regular checks help you spot:
- Cracks or dryness in the pads
- Redness or irritation between toes
- Grass seeds or debris stuck in the paw fur
- Signs of infection like swelling or a bad smell
Early detection can prevent small issues from turning into painful problems.
Trimming Fur Between the Toes
Long fur between your dog’s toes can trap moisture, dirt, and grass seeds leading to matting or irritation. A professional groomer can carefully trim this area to keep it clean and breathable, without overexposing sensitive skin.
Moisturise & Protect
Just like we might use sunscreen or after-sun lotion, dogs can benefit from paw balms to soothe and protect their pads. Look for natural, dog-safe products that help keep paws supple and crack-free.
Bonus Tip: Dog Boots or Paw Wax
For especially hot days or adventurous walks, consider using paw wax or lightweight dog boots to shield against extreme surfaces.
At The Grooming Pod at Rags and Bert’s, we treat every part of your pup with care, including their hard-working paws. Ask us about our paw balm treatments and pad trims during your next visit!