Signs of Heat Damage to Your Dogs Paws
At Hamilton Animal Hospital, our vets are here for all of your pet's needs, including dehydration and heat damage. Learn signs that your pet's paws may be damaged by hotter weather and what to do next.
Signs of Heat Damage to Paws
Heat damage to paws occurs when your pet walks or stands on pavement that is too hot to be safe. If you could not stand on the sidewalk in bare feet for over 10 seconds, your pet cannot safely walk on the same sidewalk. If you take your pup for a walk despite the heat, their paws may become signed.
Symptoms of damaged paws include:
- Your pet limping
- Your pet not wanting to walk
- Excessive licking, biting, or chewing at the paw pads
- Visible pieces of paw missing
- Paw pads that have turned red or pink
If your pet's paws have become damaged by the heat, it's important to seek treatment at our veterinary clinic, so your pet can walk comfortably once more.
How Our Columbus Vet Treats Heat Damage to Paws
When you come in complaining of heat damage, our vet first checks your pet's vital signs and temperature. Pets that have damaged paws may also be dehydrated. We may administer fluids to restore your pet's hydration levels.
For paw pad injuries, we will gently clean and disinfect the pads. We'll administer a burn ointment, then we will wrap the paws so your pet does not lick the wounds.
Before we send you home, we'll discuss how to care for your pet in recovery, including when to administer medication and when to resume walks with your pet. We'll also pass along helpful tips for exercising your pet without exposing them to heat damage, such as using booties to cover the feet when walking your pet on these warmer days. Finally, we'll answer any of your questions.
See a Columbus Veterinarian
Our Columbus veterinarian is ready to assist with wellness care and animal emergencies. If there's any way we can help you, please call our clinic at 714.964.4744.