Hot Trails, Hot Paws: Keeping Dogs Safe at Mission Trails

Hot summer days can turn a routine hike into a dangerous one for dogs.

Dogs often keep going because they want to stay with their people, even when they are uncomfortable. By the time a dog refuses to walk, searches for shade or starts panting heavily, their paws may already be hurting or they may be experiencing heat stress.

Before heading out, check the temperature and the trail surface. Hold the back of your hand against the ground for seven to 10 seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Ground temperatures above 125 degrees can burn paw pads within minutes, and the air near a hot trail can be significantly warmer than the temperature higher off the ground.

Bring plenty of fresh water for both you and your dog, take frequent breaks and hike early in the morning or later in the evening. Puppies, senior dogs, short-nosed breeds and dogs that are overweight, ill or have long coats may be especially vulnerable to overheating.

Watch for excessive or noisy panting, bright red or pale gums, restlessness, difficulty breathing, drooling, vomiting, sluggishness or a staggering gait. Severe symptoms require immediate veterinary care.

Heat is not the only concern. Dogs can also encounter ticks, snakes, poison oak and foxtails. Do not allow dogs to drink or swim in river water, where organisms including leptospirosis and giardia may be present.
And on the hottest days, the safest choice may be the simplest one: leave your dog at home.

The trail will still be there when it cools down.