How Hot Does Pavement Get at 87 Degrees Fahrenheit?
During the warmer months, pet owners often underestimate the danger that hot pavement poses to their animals. While 87°F may seem like a mild summer day, the temperature of concrete, asphalt, and other pavement material can rise to dangerous levels — enough to cause serious burns in a matter of seconds.
Understanding Pavement Temperature
There is a significant difference between air temperature and the temperature of surfaces exposed to sunlight. Pavement is particularly notorious for becoming dangerously hot on a sunny day because it absorbs and retains heat throughout the day, amplifying surface temperatures far beyond what thermometers measure in the air.
When the air temperature is 87°F, data shows that:
- Asphalt temperatures can soar to as much as 143°F
- Concrete surfaces may reach around 135°F
- Brick or paver walkways can range between 125–140°F
For context, human skin can begin to experience burns in as little as 60 seconds when in contact with surfaces hotter than 125°F. Dogs' paw pads, though tougher than human skin, are still vulnerable and can burn in under a minute on such hot surfaces.
Why Is It So Dangerous for Pets?
Many pet owners may take their dogs for walks thinking that a warm but not excessively hot day is safe. However, dogs are lower to the ground, meaning they are closer to the heat radiating off pavement. This increases their overall body heat and puts their paws at risk.
Key dangers include:
- Burnt paw pads: These painful injuries can result in blistering, limping, or aversion to walking.
- Heat stress: Dogs can overheat quickly, especially brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs and pugs.
- Long-term damage: Chronic exposure to hot surfaces can lead to persistent paw pad sensitivity or infections.
How to Test Pavement Temperature
A simple way to determine if pavement is too hot for your pet is the 7-second rule: Place the back of your hand on the surface. If you cannot hold it there comfortably for 7 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
Tips to Protect Your Pet
- Walk during cooler hours: Schedule walks in early morning or late evening when surfaces are cooler.
- Seek shaded routes: Tree-covered sidewalks or grassy paths help avoid hot surfaces.
- Use paw protection: Dog booties or paw wax can offer extra insulation against heat.
- Hydration: Bring water for both you and your pet to help combat heat stress.
Additional Hazards of Hot Pavement
Besides paw burns, excessively hot pavement contributes to overall heat retention in urban environments, commonly referred to as the urban heat island effect. This means that pets walking on these surfaces may also face elevated risks of dehydration, heat stroke, and exhaustion.
Recognizing Burn Symptoms in Pets
If your pet shows any of the following symptoms after walking on a hot surface, consult a veterinarian:
- Limping or refusal to walk
- Paw licking or chewing
- Paw pads appear red, blistered, or discolored
- Whining or behavioral changes related to paw contact
Conclusion: Vigilance Is Vital
Dangers of hot pavement are often overlooked during the summer months. An air temperature of just 87°F can transform ordinary sidewalks and driveways into hazards capable of harming pets within seconds. Being aware of pavement temperatures and taking preventative measures not only shields your pets from harm but also ensures that outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Always test the ground, choose cooler times of day, and equip your pet appropriately to protect their health and comfort during warm weather.
