The UK is experiencing a severe heatwave, with the Met Office warning that temperatures could reach 40°C in some areas on Wednesday and Thursday. While humans can cool down by sweating, dogs lack this ability and are covered in fur, making them particularly vulnerable to heat-related injuries. Emergency vets chain Vets Now has issued a simple seven-second pavement test to help dog owners determine if it's safe to walk their pets.
The Seven-Second Pavement Test
Vets Now explains: "For many, warm, sunny weather provides a great incentive to get outdoors. But it also brings its problems – such as roads melting and dogs getting their paws burnt on scorching hot pavements." The test involves placing the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If you cannot comfortably hold it there, the surface is too hot for your dog's paws.
According to Vets Now, "Dogs’ paws can be just as sensitive as humans’ feet. That means they’re equally as likely to get burnt walking on a hot surface as their owner would be." The test was developed by US vets, where paw burns are common due to high summer temperatures.
Temperature Risks
Surprisingly, paw burns can occur even on days that do not feel searingly hot. Vets Now states: "If the outside temperature is a pleasant 25 degrees, there’s little wind, and humidity is low, asphalt and tarmac can reach a staggering 52 degrees. This can rise to 62 degrees when the mercury hits 31 degrees." To put this in perspective, an egg can fry in five minutes at 55°C, and skin destruction can occur in just one minute at 52°C. Pavements absorb heat throughout the day and retain it, making them dangerous for dogs.
Choosing Safer Surfaces
Studies have shown that artificial grass and running track materials can also become extremely hot. Natural grass was found to be the coolest surface. Vets Now advises: "The fact natural grass was the coolest of the six suggests that owners should choose it to walk their dogs on hot summer’s days." However, the strongest recommendation is to exercise dogs before 8am or after 8pm when temperatures are lower.
Safety Tips for Dog Owners
- Follow the seven-second rule and check the surface for heat before leaving the house.
- Walk on natural grass whenever possible.
- Walk early in the morning or late in the evening when surfaces are cooler.
- Invest in a pair of dog booties to protect paws from burns.
Vets Now emphasizes that many cases of severe paw burns could have been avoided with simple precautions. Dog owners are urged to remain vigilant during the heatwave to keep their pets safe.
