LAS VEGAS, July 31, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pets owners need to ensure that pets do not damage exposed paw pads as temperatures rise, reports St. Francis Animal Hospital. This Las Vegas Animal Hospital often sees heat damage occur to pets’ paws as the heat emanated from outside surfaces scorches paws and impairs their mobility. Heat damage to paws can be avoided as pet owners become more aware of how exposure to hot surfaces can affect their four-legged friends.
A dog’s paw is composed of skin, connective tissue, blood supply, bone, tendons and ligaments. Although dogs build up a tolerance to hot and cold surfaces, inside dogs are particularly at risk of burnt, blistering and ulcerating paws when walked outside on hot street surfaces. Damage to more than one paw can handicap a dog’s ability to move about normally. Check paws after every walk to make sure that their pads have not been affected from excessive heat, thorns or sticks. Pet owners who notice that their dog has begun to limp should check paws immediately. Examine between the toes, the pads and the top and bottom of the foot.
Pets and their owners can experience extreme heat and high outdoor surface temperatures during the summer. It is recommended that dogs are exercised or walked prior to sunup or after sundown to prevent heat damage to paws and heat-related conditions such as heat stroke. Prior to walking your dog, place your hand/palm on the surface of the ground. If you cannot place your hand on the ground for at least 5 seconds, then it is too hot and you should not walk your dog on that surface. Monitor a pet’s paws during exercise. Pet owners can help their pet if they suspect heat damage. Wash paws with antibacterial soap and pat dry. Pets with burnt pads, ruptured blisters and unusual limping should be taken to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
“Pet owners should be aware of how to avoid heat damage to paws during the summer.” said Dr. David Drake. “A dog will not immediately demonstrate discomfort to their owner, and may be willing to walk over unusually hot areas when requested. Temperatures of 140 degrees can cause burns, scarring and permanent damage after only one minute. Rapid burns and blistering occur at 150 degrees. Prevention is the best path a pet owner can take during peak summer periods, however pets who have been burned should be brought in for an evaluation and care.”
Dr. David Drake, veterinarian at St. Francis Animal Hospital , serves pet owners and pets in and around Las Vegas. Their staff offers quality Las Vegas veterinary care with services including pet wellness care, vaccinations, dental care and pet surgery.
Call (702) 384-6161 to learn more about heat damage to paws or visit http://www.stfrancisanimalhosp i tallasvegas.com/ for more details on their full range of veterinary services.
St. Francis Animal Hospital, (702) 384-6161
