Roads and pavements can get blisteringly hot on summer days, which can turn your regular afternoon walk into torture for your dog.
But the Dogs Trust has an easy and quick trick that might just save their sensitive pads from distress.
You can test if the temperature of the road surface is OK by putting your hand flat on the surface - and if you can’t hold your palm there for at least seven seconds, then it’s going to be far too hot for your dog to walk on.
Road temperatures can be much hotter than the weather forecast suggests - black surfaces attract and store heat, and experts say they can often reach more than 50C on the hottest British days.
Asphalt can also melt in the sun, running the risk of it sticking to your dog’s pads and attracting sharp stones.
Be careful of moving from grassed areas onto paths and roads, too - just a few seconds on a too-hot surface can leave their skin red, swollen or blistered.
The Dogs Trust also warned that you should ensure your dog has access to shade and plenty of water during summer.
Think about moving your walks to the early morning or later in the evening when temperatures have cooled down.
Dogs are at risk of heatstroke which can prove fatal, particularly if they are old, overweight or a breed such as Pugs, Boxers and Bulldogs that suffer from breathing difficulties.
Sunburn can also be a problem for pale-coloured dogs, and for all breeds on their noses, ear-tips and anywhere they have short coats. You can get pet-safe sun cream and should reapply it regularly, especially if your dog is prone to taking dips in rivers or paddling pools.
If your dogs are too hot and can’t reduce their body temperature by panting, or if they are vomiting or appear lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated, you should follow emergency dog first aid and contact your nearest vet.
