Treat pet’s burned paws

#MiddleburyCT #BurntPaws

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I took my German Shepherd, Maximilian, for a walk at lunchtime today. Since we got back, he’s been limping and whining. I don’t see any debris on his paws, but the pads on his front paws feel hot. Did he burn them somehow? – Greg B., Tampa

DEAR GREG: From his symptoms, it’s very likely that he burned his pads on a hot sidewalk or street. You’ll need to treat them quickly; first aid is straightforward for this injury.

• Fill a shallow bowl with cold (but not icy) water. Gently submerge your dog’s paws in the water – you may need to do one at a time and give him treats throughout the process – for 10 to 15 minutes. (If he doesn’t tolerate the water bowl at all, wrap each paw in a cool cloth instead.)
• Wash his paws with cool, soapy water or disinfect carefully, and pat them dry immediately.
• Put clean socks on his paws so he doesn’t lick them and encourage him to rest.
• Check Maximilian’s paw pads every few hours. If you see any sign of broken skin, blisters or infection, or if he is still limping tomorrow, take him to the vet for further evaluation and treatment.

Burnt pads can happen very quickly in the summertime, especially in southern states. Walk dogs in the early morning before sunrise or just after sunset to minimize this risk, or keep them on the grass and away from pavement during the day. Booties provide some protection, but can’t always stop heat transfer to paws. After each walk, check their pads and wrap them in a cool cloth for a few minutes, if they feel warm.

Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.