Summer in South Africa means sunshine, braais, beach days and plenty of time outdoors. And if you’ve got a dog, chances are they’re just as excited about the warmer weather as you are.
But there’s one summer danger that’s surprisingly easy to overlook: the ground beneath your dog’s paws.
If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws
We’ve all experienced that barefoot dash across scorching paving or beach sand in the middle of summer.
Now imagine doing it without the option of putting on shoes!
Tar, concrete, paving and even beach sand can become extremely hot in direct sunlight. And because dogs’ paw pads are in constant contact with these surfaces, they can suffer painful burns without us immediately noticing. A simple trick is to place the back of your hand against the ground for about seven seconds. If it’s uncomfortable to keep it there, it’s best to avoid walking your dog on that surface.
It’s a useful quick check, although it isn’t a guarantee that the surface is safe.
Timing makes all the difference
During our hot South African summers, early mornings and cooler evenings are generally the best times for dog walks.Try to avoid the midday heat, particularly on days when the sun is beating down.
And remember, dogs don’t cool themselves down the same way we do. They rely heavily on panting, which means overheating can become a serious problem, especially for older dogs, overweight pets and flat-faced breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs.
Watch for the warning signs
If your dog starts limping, licking their paws excessively or refusing to walk, check their paw pads for redness, blisters or other signs of injury. Excessive panting, weakness, drooling, vomiting or difficulty standing can also be signs of heat-related illness.
If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog somewhere cool, start cooling them with cool (not icy) water and seek urgent veterinary assistance.
Don’t forget the beach!
There’s nothing quite like watching a happy dog racing along the shoreline. But beach sand can get incredibly hot too, particularly on the dry upper sections away from the water.
Take fresh drinking water along, offer regular breaks in the shade and try to prevent your dog from drinking seawater.
And after a beach outing, a quick rinse with fresh water helps remove salt and sand from their coat and paws.
A little planning goes a long way
You don’t need to keep your dog indoors all summer. Just be mindful of the heat, choose your walking times carefully and pay attention to what your dog’s behaviour is telling you.
After all, summer adventures should end with a happy, tired dog curled up on the couch — not a trip to the vet!
Here’s to sunny days, wagging tails and happy paws! 🐾
Yours in Paws,
The PawPaw Team.