Paws to Feel the Pavement

I love driving through downtown Asheville, NC on my way home after a satisfying day with my clients and their amazing companions at Sunvet Animal Wellness Clinic. What always catches my attention during the especially hot summer months is the number of canines accompanying their people on Asheville sidewalks during the hottest part of the day. Eeeks!  

If that person would only put the back of their hand on the pavement for ten seconds, they would most definitely think twice about their foray onto the sizzling sidewalk, burning blacktop, or piping hot pavement which is actually frying Fido’s toes.

On occasion, I see a low-rider, such as a Dachshund, or a short-nosed dog, such as a Bulldog, or a breed that embraces both of these qualities like the Pug, and I truly fear for their well-being. Not only are they subject to the toe fry, but they are perilously close to the radiating heat with no relief in sight.

Additionally, the brachycephalic canines (the official term for short-nosed dogs), who have a hard enough time taking a decent breath through their undersized or flattened breathing passages in a normal scenario, must take on the burden of breathing as if in a sauna.  I send out a silent prayer that their caretakers will see how reluctant their furry friend is to escort them as they explore our fabulously eclectic and entertaining town. Will their people acknowledge the long, droopy tongues, the dashing from from one shaded area to another,  the pulling towards the few grassy or earthen areas?  

I imagine I am preaching to the choir with readers of this post. I am sure all of you are already leaving your fuzzy buddies at home, lounging in the cool shade and enjoying their afternoon siestas, when there is any possibility for scorched puppy paws.

May your walks be filled with shade and grass and may you Paws to Feel the Pavement!