Too hot for paws? We put valley pavement to the test

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) - With triple-digit temperatures continuing across the Coachella Valley, veterinarians are reminding dog owners that the pavement beneath their feet can become much hotter than the air temperature.

News Channel 3 put common walking surfaces to the test, measuring temperatures on asphalt and grass at a local dog park. The test found the asphalt measured 135 degrees, while the grass nearby was about 50 degrees cooler.

Veterinarians say hot surfaces can put dogs at risk for painful paw pad burns. One simple rule of thumb they recommend is the seven-second hand test: if the back of your hand cannot comfortably stay on the pavement for several seconds, it may be too hot for your dog's paws.

Karen Rivera, a medical services supervisor, says pet owners should avoid walking dogs during the hottest parts of the day and instead choose early morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower.

Experts also recommend watching for signs of overheating, including excessive drooling, red gums or tongue, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of coordination.

Before heading out for a walk, veterinarians say checking the surface and your pet's paws afterward can help prevent injuries during the summer heat.