“Its Summer Time, How Do I Prevent Paw Burns?”
During the hot summer months the best way to prevent paw burns is to prioritize walks during the cooler parts of the day like early morning or late evening.
It is also good to avoid hot pavement during walks and try to keep walks on the grass or dirt!
Another way to avoid paw burns is by getting dog shoes or booties! Of course make sure they fit properly and are the correct size or that can cause blisters from rubbing.
You can use paw balm on their paws before and after walks to protect them.
What do I do if my dog gets paw burn?
ALWAYS contact your vet first!!!!
Immediately flush the affected paws with COOL (not cold) water for 10-15minutes
Gently dry the paws and assess the severity of the burns.
Minor Burn: Redness, mild pain
Severe Burn: Blisters, swelling, excessive pain, missing chunks of paw
For MINOR burns use pet safe ointments like Aloe Vera or petroleum jelly to soothe the paw and minimize the pain
For SEVERE burns take your pet to the urgent clinic or emergency vet as soon as possible because it may need professional wound management including cleaning, bandaging, and antibiotics.
To PREVENT LICKING the wounds. use booties or a clean breathable bandage to prevent irritation and infection.
Monitor the paws for infection symptoms such as, redness, foul smell, discharge, or swelling. If you notice any of these contact your vet immediately!
Also follow the above rules for preventing a paw burn while your dogs paw burns are healing as well!
***AGAIN PLEASE MAKE SURE TO ALWAYS CONTACT YOUR VET FIRST AS THESE ARE JUST BASIC GUIDELINES***