‘Protect Dogs’ Paws From Hot Pavement’ Project Hits Austin

PETA Posts Sidewalk Signs Warning That Dogs’ Feet Can Burn and Blister on Sizzling Streets

For Immediate Release:
September 5, 2017

Contact:
Brooke Rossi 202-483-7382

Dozens of sidewalk decals were placed near dog parks and other busy spots around Austin, courtesy of PETA, reminding passersby to think of their dogs’ sensitive feet during summer walks, when even a few minutes’ contact with blisteringly hot pavement can cause their paws to burn. The signs show a dog with a bandaged foot alongside the words “Hot Streets Can Burn Dogs’ Feet” and send the crucial message that in high temperatures like those that Austinites have been experiencing, animal guardians should walk dogs early in the morning, walk them on the grass, or leave them at home—other than for vital walks—where they’ll be cool and safe.

“On hot pavement, dogs’ paw pads can fry,” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA’s eye-catching signs remind people to take simple steps when walking their dogs so that every step isn’t agony.”

PETA (whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”) notes that on an 87-degree day, asphalt temperatures can reach 140 degrees—hot enough to cause burns and permanent damage after just one minute of contact. Hot sidewalks also reflect heat onto dogs’ bodies, increasing their risk of suffering from deadly heatstroke. PETA encourages all animal guardians to test the pavement with a hand before setting out, walk early in the morning or late at night when it’s cooler, carry water, take frequent breaks in shady spots, and never make dogs wear muzzles that restrict their breathing.

A complete list of PETA’s ad locations follows. For more information, please visit PETA.org.

‘Hot Streets Can Burn Dogs’ Feet’ Pavement Decals

• Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park, 600 Barton Springs Rd. and 1085 Barton Springs Rd.
• Austin Urban Vet Center, 710 W. Fifth St.
• Bark ‘N Purr Pet Center, 4604 Burnet Rd.
• Cedar Door, 198 Brazos St.
• Crú, 251 W. Second St.
• Davis White Northeast District Park, 5909 Crystalbrook Dr.
• Great OutDogs Pet Store, 1210 Barton Springs Rd.
• Montopolis Neighborhood Park, 6143 Larch Ter.
• Mueller Central, 4550 Mueller Blvd.
• Norwood Estate Dog Park, 1009 Edgecliff Ter.
• Peace Point at Town Lake Metropolitan Park, 2200 S. Lakeshore Blvd.
• Prime Pet, 2505 E. Sixth St.
• Red Bud Isle Dog Park, 3401 Redbud Trl.
• Rivers & Reefs Pet Center, 2008 S. First St.
• Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park, 2525 S. Lakeshore Blvd.
• West Austin Dog Park, 1313 Ninth St. and 1317 W. 10^th
• Yard Bar, 6700 Burnet Rd.
• Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd.