As we humans escape into our homes that are air conditioned or cooled with fans we wonder why our dogs might be acting sluggish or begging to get back inside. Have you ever noticed dogs who refuse to walk at an event and just plops himself down? Paws scorching on the Asphalt could be the problem… not your dog being stubborn.
- As a basic ‘rule of paw’-If the pavement feels too hot for your barefoot, it is too hot for Fido’s.
- Pressing your own bare hands and feet on the pavement for at least 7-8 seconds is a recommended strategy to assess heat level.
- If the 7-8 second test yields a comfortable temperature, it is still critical to consider other factors to assess safety accurately.
- The air temperature is NOT an accurate reflection of ground temperature at all!
- Asphalt and other ground surfaces retain heat and this temperature rises exponentially as heat and sun exposure continues.
- Furthermore, the time of day is very relevant!
- Asphalt soaks up the heat all day and can only cool down at a certain rate and only when the sun retreats- so pavement that was deemed safe for a walk at 9 am may differ greatly at high noon and into the early evening.
If you want to take an outing with your dog in the summer think water! Even non-water dogs still like to run along the edge and get their doggie tootsies wet and your feet will like it better too.