Hot For Dog Walks?

We’ve recently had a bit of a heat wave in San Francisco. It’s exceptionally rare for temperatures to get higher than 80 (although less so in recent years), which means most people don’t have air conditioners much less any idea of how to deal with the heat.

That detail became exceptionally apparent on some of the hottest days when you saw people walking their dogs in the middle of the day. Dogs that in many cases couldn’t handle keeping their paws on the hot pavement.

If it’s 77 degrees outside, pavement that’s been sitting in sun can potentially be up to 125-degrees. When the temperature gets up to 87, that asphalt temperature grows to a paw-burning 143 degrees.

For a little perspective, asphalt that’s 135 degrees can fry an egg in 5 minutes.

Pet insurance provider PetPlan recently put out this infographic explaining what can happen when your pooch gets exposed to hot pavement.

It suggests as a rule of thumb to put your hand on the pavement for seven seconds before heading outside with your dog. If it’s too hot for your hand, then it’s also too hot for paws.

Taking walk in the early morning or after the sun sets can also ensure cooler temperatures and a safer situation for your dog.

If you do need to go out while it’s still hot, try and walk in the grass as much as possible. You can also invest in a good pair of dog booties to keep your pet’s paw’s safe or use a topical product to toughen up their paws.