Stray and lost dogs aren’t coping well with the heat, according to Warrumbungle’s pound, where several dogs have been found with burnt paws. 

Soaring temperatures aren’t likely to reprieve anytime soon, with the Bureau of Meteorology releasing a heatwave warning for the coming weekend. 

The experience of the pound has prompted the council to issue warnings to dog owners during the heat.

“It has been disheartening the number of animals coming into Council’s pound with burnt paws due to the sheer heat of the ground they are roaming around on,” said Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Ambrose Doolan. 

“If you cannot walk on the road in bare feet because it is too hot and will burn your feet, then it will also burn your pets’ feet.”

“Their paws are sensitive and can easily succumb to being burnt,” he said.

While its dogs that are being burned in the Warrumbungles, cats are vulnerable to the same issue, with similarly susceptible paws.  

Cats are also susceptible to burnt paws.

According to researchers, black asphalt can reach up to 75 degrees on a day that may reach up to 40 degrees, making walking barefooted on a road a terrifying task. 

Even on a more bearable day of 25 degrees, asphalt can still reach up to 52 degrees. 

Severe burns on a pet’s paw can take a long time to heal, and in increase their chances of developing an infection. 

Symptoms to look out for include limping or lameness, reluctance to walk, licking or chewing paws, and blistered or flapping skin on the paw pads. 

 “Please remember if you feel hot and thirsty, they do too,” Cr Doolan said.

Experts suggest checking the pavement before a walk, walking in cooler times of the day, sticking to grassy spots and a shady route where possible. 

Signs of burned paw pads require veterinary advice and potentially treatment.