Desert Paw Care – Protecting Your Pet’s Feet & Pads in the UAE Heat

The UAE’s climate creates unique challenges for pet owners, especially when it comes to protecting sensitive paws. Whether you live in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, you already know how quickly pavements heat up. For pets, especially small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, or exotic companions, the risk of burns, cracks, and dehydration is much higher than many owners realize.

This guide breaks down practical, vet-approved ways to protect your pet’s feet and pads, with clear steps you can start using today. We’ll also highlight professional grooming for rabbits, exotic pets as well as pet grooming in Dubai, and how these services can help reduce paw-related issues.

Why Paw Care Matters in UAE Weather

Outdoor ground surfaces in the UAE can reach 55–70°C during peak summer. At these temperatures, a pet’s pads can burn in seconds. Pets don’t wear shoes, and their paws act as shock absorbers, cooling tools, and protective layers. Damaged paws make every step painful, increasing the risk of infection and limiting your pet’s ability to move comfortably.

Heat affects all animals, but it’s especially risky for:

• Small breed dogs
• Long-haired rabbits (fur traps heat)
• Hairless or partially hairless exotic pets
• Senior pets with thin or cracked pads

Good paw care helps prevent burns, dehydration, fungal infections, and long-term nerve sensitivity.

Common Paw Problems in Hot Climates

1. Paw Pad Burns

These occur when paws touch hot pavement, sand, or tiles. Signs include redness, limping, blisters, or your pet refusing to walk.

2. Cracked or Dry Pads

Dry heat pulls moisture from the skin. Over time, pads become rough, cracked, or flaky.

3. Sand Irritation

Fine desert sand can collect between paw pads and cause abrasions or bacterial buildup.

4. Fungal or Bacterial Infections

Sweaty paws combined with heat create ideal conditions for infections, common in pets with dense fur around their feet.

5. Overgrown Fur Around Paws

Long fur can trap debris, sand, and moisture. It also causes slips on tiles, a common issue in homes across the UAE.

These problems can be prevented with simple habits and seasonal grooming support, especially from a trusted pet salon care provider.

How to Protect Your Pet’s Paws in UAE Heat

1. Follow the “7-Second Rule” Before Walks

Press the back of your hand against the pavement for 7 seconds. If it feels hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet.

Best walking times:

• Before 9 AM or
• After sunset

Avoid midday walks entirely during summer.

2. Use Paw Balms to Prevent Dryness

Moisturizing balms protect paws from cracking. Choose:

• Non-toxic, pet-safe formulas
• Balms with shea butter, beeswax, or coconut oil

Apply after walks or as part of your grooming routine.

3. Keep Paw Fur Trimmed

Excess fur collects dirt and hides injuries. For rabbits, guinea pigs, and other exotic pets, long fur around the feet also leads to matting and discomfort.

A professional grooming session ensures:

• Clean, trimmed paw fur
• Nail check and clipping
• Pad hydration treatment

If you have a small breed pet, schedule small pet grooming in Dubai at least every 4 to 6 weeks.

4. Clean Paws After Every Outdoor Activity

Heat alone isn’t the only issue – sand, chemicals, grass treatments, and dust can stick to paws.

For daily care:

• Wipe paws with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes
• Check between toes for ticks or sand buildup
• Dry thoroughly to avoid fungal growth

This habit is especially important for exotic pets that roam outdoors or in balconies.

5. Use Protective Booties (If Your Pet Tolerates Them)

Booties protect from heat, rough terrain, and chemicals. Choose breathable, lightweight materials.

Tips:

• Introduce them indoors first
• Reward your pet for tolerance
• Ensure proper fit to avoid chafing

Not all pets accept booties, so don’t force it.

6. Provide Indoor Exercise During Extreme Heat

When temperatures reach 40–50°C, prioritize indoor play.

Examples:

• Indoor fetch
• Food puzzles
• Climbing stations for rabbits
• Tunnels and mats for small animals
• Safe wheel or obstacle setups for exotic pets

It prevents heat stress and paw burns while keeping your pet active.

7. Keep Nails Properly Trimmed

Long nails alter how paws hit the ground, increasing pressure and risk of injury. Trim nails regularly or get them done during rabbit grooming or small pet grooming appointments.

Signs nails are too long:

• Clicking sound
• Difficulty walking
• Splayed toes
• Curled tips

8. Hydrate Your Pet Well

Dehydration makes paw pads dry and brittle.

Ensure:

• Clean water access at all times
• Added hydration through wet food (if suitable)
• Cool resting spots indoors

For rabbits and exotic pets, hydration prevents dryness and helps regulate temperature through their feet.

9. Schedule Regular Grooming for Paw Health

Professional grooming keeps paws healthy in ways at-home care can’t always match. Expert groomers spot early signs of:

• Burns
• Cracks
• Parasites
• Infections
• Fur matting

Special Paw Care Tips for Rabbits & Exotic Pets

Rabbits

Rabbits walk on fur rather than pads, making them vulnerable to:

• Sore hocks (painful wounds on feet)
• Matted fur
• Infections from dirty flooring

Keep litter areas clean, trim fur regularly, and ensure soft flooring. Professional rabbit grooming helps prevent matting around the feet, which can quickly worsen in humid heat.

Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs have tiny, sensitive feet that easily crack or get irritated. Keep bedding dry and clean daily. Avoid placing them on tiles or sand.

Reptiles & Other Exotics

Some reptiles can get thermal burns from hot surfaces too. Always check temperatures before letting them roam.

When to Seek Veterinary Attention

Contact your vet if you notice:

• Blisters or open wounds
• Limping or refusal to walk
• Severe redness or swelling
• Persistent licking or chewing of paws
• Pus, odor, or bleeding

Early treatment prevents complications like infections or tissue damage.

Why Professional Grooming Supports Paw Health

A grooming session tailored for desert climates includes:

• Paw pad moisturizing
• Nail trimming
• Fur trimming around feet
• Inspection for burns or infections
• Cleaning between toes
• Bathing with sensitive-skin shampoos
• Proper drying to prevent fungal growth

We at The Groomer offer specialized pet salon care and small-pet-friendly grooming environments designed for UAE weather. This ensures your pet gets gentle, expert handling and climate-appropriate care.

Final Thoughts

Paw care isn’t optional in the UAE, it’s essential. The combination of high temperatures, dry air, and hot ground surfaces means pets need extra protection. By following simple daily habits, choosing safe walking times, moisturizing paws, and keeping fur trimmed, you can significantly reduce the risk of burns and discomfort.

Regular professional grooming helps catch early signs of paw issues and keeps your pet safe throughout the year. With the right approach, your furry (or exotic) companion can stay comfortable, healthy, and protected from the harsh desert heat.