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Protect Your Dog’s Paws From Hot Pavement and Rocky Trails

June 26th, 2016 by Cherished Companions Animal Clinic

Buddy has been taking short walks on trails to build up his paws for long trail runs.

You know it’s summer in Colorado when you can kick off your shoes and walk around your yard barefoot.

The first couple times you do that, though, your feet are likely to be sensitive.

Your dog’s paw pads are no different.

A dog that doesn’t spend much time on dirt roads or rocky trails can really feel it on those first few hikes.

And no matter how tough your dog’s paw pads are, hot pavements can burn, even on 70-degree days!

Hot asphalt can burn a dog's paws in the summer.

Friendly tips for protecting dog paws

Hot pavement:

  • When walking your dog, encourage your pup to enjoy the grass, rather than walking on hot concrete or asphalt.
  • Consider investing in booties. (We know some dogs may resist, but booties really can help.)

Rocky roads or trails can create abrasions on a dog's paws.

Dirt roads or rocky trails:

If your dog spends most of his or her time in the house, in a grassy yard and/or on paved streets, a 10-mile hike on a trail can really tear your dog’s paw pads up.

(It can even lead to dog paw injuries.)

To avoid abrasions:

  • Ease into your adventures in nature, so your dog’s paw pads can thicken up.
  • Again, think about booties.

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Tips from a Castle Rock veterinarian: 8 tips to keep your dog safe & happy in Castle Rock

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Cherished Companions Animal Clinic is a veterinary clinic in Castle Rock, Colorado. Specializing in the care of cats and dogs, our goal is to help you and your pet feel more comfortable, keeping your stress to a minimum.

This article is intended to provide general guidance on protecting your dog’s paws from hot pavement and rocky trails. If you have specific questions or concerns, please contact your local veterinarian. (If you live in or around Castle Rock, we welcome your call: 303-688-3757.)

© 2016, Cherished Companions Animal Clinic

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