Share
As a dog owner, I love nothing more than a good walk with my furry best friend.
But as the temperatures start to climb, a simple stroll can turn dangerous surprisingly fast.
Did you know that a dog can get heatstroke even on a mildly warm day?
Our dogs are far more sensitive to heat than we are.
Thats why knowing exactly when the heat becomes a hazard is important.
So, keep reading if youre wondering, Is it too hot to walk my dog?
or how to protect those precious paws from scorching pavement.
I have everything you gotta keep your dog safe and comfortable through those hot summer months.
The information provided herein is for informational purposes only.
Your dogs safety in the heat is about way more than just the number on the thermometer.
Several factors work together to determine how your dog will handle the weather.
Dogs are the same way!
Just like humans, their individual characteristics play a huge role in how they handle warm weather.
Heres what you better consider:
What about those temperature guidelines?
Once you cross into the 80s (F), the risk of heat stroke starts to climb.
Above 89F, its downright dangerous for most dogs.
Its all about knowing your dogs limits and playing it safe.
Dont get caught up in comparisons focus on protecting your furry friend.
Humidity is a silent factor that can turn a moderate day into a danger zone.
Your dogs main way of cooling down is panting.
However, evaporation becomes far less efficient when the air is already saturated with moisture (high humidity).
Its like trying to run a fan in a steamy bathroom it also doesnt work.
This is why paying attention to the humidity level is just as important as looking at the temperature.
To simplify it, theres a handy guideline:add the air temperature in Fahrenheit to the humidity percentage.
If the total is 150 or higher, its time to rethink those outdoor adventures.
Check the Pavement Temperature
Share iconImage credits:Lucia Vergara
Ever walked barefoot on scorching summer asphalt?
Remember that burning sensation?
Now imagine that on your dogs delicate paw pads.
The problem is air temperature doesnt tell you how hot the ground is.
Asphalt and concrete absorb and radiate heat, often becoming far hotter than the surrounding air.
This means trouble for yourdogs paws, even on days that might not feel overly hot to you.
Heres the 5-second rule:Press the back of your hand firmly against the pavement.
If you cant comfortably hold it there for at least five seconds, its toohot for your dog.
Their paws are tougher than ours but nowhere near tough enough to handle that kind of heat.
The dangers of hot pavement are more than just discomfort:
What to do instead?
Dont underestimate the risk of hot pavement.
Heres what to do:
Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Proactive measures will go a long way in protecting your four-legged friend against the dangers of excessive heat.
