A disturbing image of a dog’s severely burned paws is making waves across social media, raising urgent awareness about the dangers of walking pets on hot pavement during the summer months.

The viral photo shows the raw, blistered pads of a dog who was walked during peak heat, with the caption written from the dog’s perspective:
“Hey, human moms and dads—here’s what happens to my paws when you take me out in the blazing sun. I sweat through my paws, and when it’s this hot, I can’t cool off because my paws are burning.”

Veterinarians warn that pavement can reach dangerously high temperatures—often exceeding 130°F (54°C)—on sunny days, even if the air feels tolerable to humans. Unlike people, dogs can’t wear shoes or speak up when their feet begin to burn.

Experts recommend performing the “seven-second test”: if you can’t comfortably keep your hand or bare foot on the pavement for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your pet. Instead, pet owners are encouraged to walk dogs early in the morning or after sunset, and always check surfaces before heading out.

“Skipping a walk won’t hurt me,” the caption continues. “Let me chill inside and take me out once the sun goes down.”

The post concludes with a poignant reminder:
“If you spot someone walking their dog on hot pavement, kindly suggest they try it barefoot for the rest of the way. They might just understand how much it hurts.”

As summer temperatures continue to rise globally, this powerful image serves as a wake-up call to all pet guardians: paws can’t speak, but pain always leaves a mark.