Paws Off the Pavement: How to Keep Your Dog’s Feet Happy This Summer
Summer’s just around the corner, and you know what that means—sunshine, fresh air, and all the walks with our four-legged besties! While your pup may be living their best life sniffing every blade of grass, summer fun can be a little ruff on their paws if we’re not careful.
Here are five common summertime paw problems—and how to avoid them like a pro:
1. Burnt & Torn Pads
If you’ve ever dashed across hot asphalt barefoot, you know that pain. Now imagine doing it with no shoes—every day. Ouch! Your dog’s paw pads can burn or tear quickly on hot sidewalks or rough surfaces.
Paw Tip: Stick to walks during cooler hours (think early mornings or after dinner), and try to keep to the grass or shaded paths when the sun’s out in full force.
2. Sneaky Metal Edging
That sleek metal border in your backyard might look sharp (pun intended), but it’s a top offender for slicing up paws.
Paw Tip: Swap it out for a more pup-friendly option like brick or concrete—your dog (and their vet bill) will thank you.
3. Torn Nails
Nothing halts the zoomies faster than a torn toenail. All it takes is one wrong move during playtime or a sprint and pop—nail drama.
Paw Tip: Keep those claws neatly trimmed to reduce snagging and discomfort. Bonus: no more clickety-clack on the hardwood floors!
4. Grass Awns (a.k.a. Foxtails)
These little troublemakers can sneak between your dog’s toes and burrow their way in like they pay rent. Left unchecked, they can cause painful infections.
Paw Tip: Mow the lawn often and avoid overgrown or weedy areas on walks. A quick paw check after outdoor adventures goes a long way.
5. Ticks Between Toes
Ticks are masters of hide-and-seek, and between your dog’s toes is prime real estate.
Paw Tip: Year-round parasite prevention is your best defense. Even with meds, it’s smart to do a regular post-walk tick check—especially in wooded or grassy areas.
Paw Safety Tips for All Seasons
Dog paw care isn’t just a summer thing—it’s a year-round commitment. Keep these tips in your back pocket for healthy, happy paws:
- Walk during cooler times of day (morning and evening are paw-fect).
- Stick to grass or trails whenever possible—your dog’s feet will thank you.
- Use a vet-approved paw balm to keep pads soft and crack-free.
- Consider dog booties for extra protection (and bonus cuteness).
- Trim nails regularly—long nails can hurt or even grow into pads.
- Snip the fur between toes to prevent matting and infections.
- Do regular paw inspections for pebbles, glass, foxtails, and other unwelcome hitchhikers.
With a little prep and some paw-friendly habits, your pup can enjoy the sunshine safely. Here’s to a summer full of tail wags, muddy paws, and zero ouchies!
Stay cool and have a pawsome summer! 🐾