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Protect Your Pet’s Paws from Hot Pavement

Source: CNBNews · Jul 21, 2026, 9:00 AM

AI-assisted briefing from the publisher’s public headline and excerpt — not original reporting. How we write briefings

Dog paws on hot pavement during summer heat

During hot summer months, pet owners should take precautions to protect their dogs' paws from dangerously heated pavement.

On a 95-degree day, asphalt surfaces can reach temperatures of 143 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause burns to a dog's sensitive paw pads in under a minute.

The article recommends using the 7-second hand test before walking your pet—placing the back of your hand on the pavement to gauge if it's safe for your dog's feet.

Key points

  • On a 95° day, pavement can reach 143°F, hot enough to burn dog paws in under a minute
  • Use the 7-second hand test by placing the back of your hand on pavement to check if it's safe for pets
  • Hot asphalt gets significantly hotter than the surrounding air temperature
  • Pet owners should take precautions during summer walks to prevent paw injuries

FAQ

How hot does pavement get on a 95-degree day?
On a 95-degree day, asphalt pavement can reach temperatures of 143 degrees Fahrenheit, which is significantly hotter than the air temperature around it.
What is the 7-second hand test for pet safety?
The 7-second hand test involves placing the back of your hand on the pavement. If you can't comfortably keep it there for 7 seconds due to heat, the surface is too hot for your dog's paws.
How quickly can hot pavement burn a dog's paws?
Hot pavement can cause burns to a dog's sensitive paw pads in less than a minute when temperatures are extremely high.

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