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Protect your dog's paws from summertime pains

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Summertime is here, and that means the sun is out, the days are warm, and the pavement is burning hot. As many of us have learned the hard way at some point in our lives, walking on pavement without shoes can be incredibly painful. The same is true for dogs and the sensitive pads on their feet. Unfortunately, because our feet are covered, it's easy to forget just how painful hot pavement can be for feet. Just like in winter, when snow and ice pose problems for dog paws, the heat of summer can also be damaging.

The easiest way to protect your dog's paws is to walk him early in the day and in the evening after the sun has gone down. By taking your dog out during the cooler parts of the day, you are avoiding scalding hot pavement that has been baking in the sun. If you can't avoid the sun, stick to the grass, which will be much cooler on your dog's feet.

Adding protection to your dog's paws can also be beneficial. While special pet booties and socks are available, many pets are reluctant to wear them. Products like Musher's Secret Paw Wax, which is commonly used during the winter, can be utilized in the summer to keep your dog's paws comfortable on rough terrain. It's especially great for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.

It's also important to be aware of the signs that your dog's paw pads are injured. Check your pet's paws regularly and watch for limping, licking and chewing of his feet, blisters and redness on the paws, and even missing pieces of the paw pad. It's also possible your pet's feet might bleed. If your dog burns his feet on hot pavement, make sure to keep the area cool and clean. As soon as possible, bring your pet to the veterinarian. Your vet will determine how much damage was done to the paw pad and whether pain medication is needed. Infections can also happen, and your vet may prescribe antibiotics.

Preventing your pet from getting injured in the first place is clearly the best plan, so be sure to take the proper precautions when taking your dog for a walk on a hot day. Feel the pavement before walking on it, stick to shady areas, and enjoy the summer!

Alaina Goodnough is the Promotions Coordinator at Cocheco Valley Humane Society in Dover, NH. She lives in Sanford, ME with two parrots, a cockatoo, a cat, a bearded dragon, and two dachshunds. She can be reached at CVHS at devassist@cvhsonline.org. To learn more about Cocheco Valley Humane Society, go to www.cvhsonline.org or call 603-749-5322.

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