Photo: Kim Tunnicliffe / WBZ News Radio
BOSTON (WBZNewsRadio) - It's one of those days where one might be able to fry an egg on the sidewalk, and with another day expected to hover in the low 90's, we're turning our attention to the hot pavement beneath us.
The pain you feel when you step barefoot on that sizzling pavement or beach sand is the same pain your four-legged friend feels on their afternoon walk.
Thomas Alessandro from the North End took his dog, Kenzie, for a walk in the thick humidity, but she was ready, wearing special booties to prevent her paws from getting burnt on the hot pavement.
"I bought her a nice pair of summer boots in a nice soft neoprene material with a mesh all on top so her feet can breathe because the ground gets too hot for her." Alessandro told WBZ's Kim Tunnicliffe. "It's too hot and it damages her paws and I don't want her to be hurt and uncomfortable."
Experts say a good test to see if the pavement is too hot for your pup is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for Fido.
The Animal Rescue League of Boston releases a series of reminders ahead of this week's hot weather and inevitable heat wave.
Keep your pet safe and healthy by following these important basic guidelines:
· Prevention is always your best bet. Whenever possible, leave your pet at home in a cool humidity and temperature-regulated room.
· If your pet must be outdoors, find a shady spot with ample air flow to prevent overheating.
· Hydration is key, so keep a bowl of cold water accessible at all times.
· Limit exercise to the morning or evening hours when temperatures are at their coolest. Aside from the heat, the high humidity can cause respiratory issues for animals, particularly short-snouted animals (i.e. pugs).
· When the temperatures rise, it’s Too Hot for Spot®! Never leave your pet alone in a parked car -- even with the air conditioner on or the windows cracked.
WBZ NewsRadio's Kim Tunnicliffe (@KimWBZ) reports:
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App