With the changing of seasons there are new dangers for dogs and pets, that we need to remember to take in to consideration. While you may love the heat, a dogs cooling mechanisms are very different from ours so the heat affects them in more drastic ways. One thing that seems common knowledge but often gets overlooked is how hot the ground can become when the sun is out. We have shoes, dogs don't so their paw pads will burn before we even realize how hot it is for them.

A simple rule to remember is if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. If you wouldn’t walk barefoot on the asphalt, sidewalk, and even the sand or dirt, your dogs shouldn’t either. Instead of slipping off your shoes, a good way to test the temperature is to press the back of your hand to the ground: if it’s too hot to hold your hand against, it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws.

Hot surfaces to be aware of:

Asphalt, cement, sand, dirt, boat docks, anything metal, the bed of a truck, and even leather seats in your car. 

Ways to beat the heat: 

Walk your dogs early in the morning before the sun has had the chance to heat the ground all day. 

A small wading pool filled with just several inches of water provides hours of summer fun for canine friends. 

Bring a towel for them to stand on when grass is not available. 

 Keep those pups cool and walk safely!