Summer is a perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with your pet. However, excessive heat can sometimes lead to painful or dangerous situations for dogs, particularly when it comes to walking on asphalt. Dark asphalt soaks up heat very effectively, and can become quite hot during the relative warmth and uninterrupted daylight of Alaskan summers. Dogs that walk on it with bare paws can get serious burns. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your dog’s safety this summer.

A Guide to Summer & Asphalt for Pet Owners 

1. Walk Near Grass

Grass and soil don’t absorb heat as effectively as asphalt, so it’s not all trapped up at the surface. Blades of grass also get some natural cooling overnight thanks to plenty of dew, so it tends to be much more comfortable for bare paws. If walking on an asphalt walkway or trail, stick to the edge near grass so your dog can walk alongside you without burning their paws.

2. Stick to Morning & Evening Walks

Asphalt is likely to be hottest in the middle of the day when the sun is beating down on it. The indirect sunlight it gets in the morning and evening shouldn’t make the walk as uncomfortable for them. However, you should still be careful on extra hot days, or perhaps even put the walk off until temperatures cool down a bit.

3. Cover Their Paws

If you must walk on asphalt on hot days, cover your dog’s paws with some socks or booties before you leave. Make sure you only keep these on for short periods, as dogs release body heat through their paws as well. However, they can help your pet get safely through a quick walk if necessary.

 

Asphalt is a durable and attractive material for paved driveways, parking lots, and walkways in all seasons. MJM Services in Wasilla, AK, will help you pave and maintain those surfaces around your property. With more than 25 years of experience, the residential and commercial paving company is known for providing quality workmanship and reliable customer service. The family-owned company is run by a father-son team, along with their wives and grandchildren. To request service, call the team at (907) 376-5222 or send a message online.