Vet issues urgent warning to dog owners with artificial grass gardens

A VET has issued an urgent warning to all dog owners with artificial grass gardens.

Summer may offer a rare chance to soak up the sun - but it can be dangerous for our furry friends.

Scorching temperatures can lead to higher risks of painful burned paw pads.

And vet Dr Sarah-Jane Molier said fake grass can absorb heat, making it more likely a pup could be hurt.

Dr Sarah-Jane Molier told Pets Radar: "Tarmac, asphalt and fake grass are the most common culprits.

"They absorb heat throughout the day and retain it well, meaning they stay hot for quite some time."

It may not always easy to tell when your dog has injured itself.

Owners should look out for any limping or resting of one leg that switches between the two.

If your canine companion doesn't get excited for going on a walk, it could also be a sign.

They will often lick or chew their wounded paws, and be hesitant to let you touch them.

Some more obvious signs include patchy discolouration on the pads as well as blisters and peeling.

If you think your dog has burned paws, take them to the vet.

They will most likely need some prescribed pain relief and burn treatment.

It might be necessary to get antibiotics as paw wounds can easily become infected.

If you are treating your dog at home, run the pads under cool water for around ten minutes - if your pooch will let you.

But never use ice or iced water, or apply creams and ointments.

It can be helpful to wrap the burned area in clingfilm gently and place a sock over it.

The best thing you can do for your furry friend is take them to the vet.

"They will book you an appointment so that they can assess the wounds, prescribe any pain relief or antibiotics needed, and apply specialist dressings," Dr Molier explained.

"If possible, use a car rather than walking your dog to the appointment."

In general, it will take around a week for a dog paw burn to heal, but this can vary.

The vet added: "It's hard for an area to heal when it's constantly having pressure put on it."

During the recovery process, it is advised to keep the affected area clean and dry.

It's a good idea to prevent your dog walking on rough or hard surfaces if possible.

Dr Moiler said owners can carry out a pavement test on hot days.

Place the back of your hand on the ground and if it is too uncomfortable to leave it there for seven seconds it is too hot for your dog too.

"On hot days, don't walk your dog during peak sun and stick to grassy areas", she continued.

"Walk early in the morning, late in the evening, or not at all. Remember that heatstroke is a very real danger too."

Another thing you can do as a responsible dog owner is rinse their paws with cool water after a walk.

This comes after a vet said he never takes his pet to a dog park.

Despite parks being the most common place to let canines off the lead, animal care influencer Hunter Finn said they should be avoided.

Because dog parks are frequented by a large number of animals, it increased the risk of pets falling victim to health-related issues.

Dr Hunter Finn also issued an urgent warning to dog owners over little-known signs of serious injury and when you should take them for surgery.

Another vet also raised the alarm about five foods you should never give your pet as some could be lethal.