Veterinarian Shares Myth-Busting Facts About Dogs Wearing Shoes
There are some universal truths when it comes to pet parenting. A lot of things about pet parenthood are so different: it's really a case by case kind of a thing. It's tough, but if there's one thing all pet parents agree on, it's that we need to keep our fur babies safe.
On Thursday, April 4th, a veterinarian sat down and explained exactly why it's so important for our four-legged friends to wear shoes and stay safe:
Antelope Pets is so right about this. Dogs can be so weird about their feet, but it's vital to keep them from burning.
Most people know that your dog should definitely wear shoes in the hot summertime. Concrete and asphalt both get incredibly hot, even when it's not that hot outside. At just 75 degrees, both concrete and asphalt can be well over 100 degrees - asphalt gets hotter since it's darker. The veterinarian in this video gives out a great tip: if you press your hand to the ground and can't hold it there for more than ten seconds, it's too hot to take your dog out without booties.
She notes that dogs have feeling in their paw pads, which is something not everyone believes. While most paw pads are covered with at least a little bit of fur, it is not enough to encase them and provide protection. Even "hardy" breeds need protective footwear.
However, what a lot of people don't consider is that dogs should also be wearing booties in the wintertime. There's a lot of stuff on the roads and sidewalks in this season: salt and chemicals can both give dogs nasty burns on their paws. Additionally, it's cold, and their paws are also susceptible to frostbite. Booties can also provide traction and keep your pup from slipping!
Booties Aren't the Only Winter Wear
In the summer, it's best to keep as many layers off of your dog as possible. They should wear booties, but other than that, they shouldn't be wearing other clothes. However, in the winter, they might need to bundle up just like we do. Smaller dogs or large dogs with short coats may need a coat or sweater in the winter, too!
If it's just chilly, a sweater is fine, but if you need to go out while it's actively raining or snowing, you're better off getting them a proper coat that's waterproof. It'll keep them warmer for longer. The same goes for boots - opt for rubber or silicone ones over "sock" types.
There are generally two types of outings: quick potty breaks and walks. If you have the luxury of having a yard, you don't necessarily need to put booties and a coat on them. But if you're going to be out for more than a few minutes (or if your dog is really small), it's best to bundle them up.
Cats may be less common to see on walks, but this same advice applies to them: they need booties in the summer and winter, though they're less likely to need coats.
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