parks
Protect your dog’s paws: Learn the 7-second test for hot pavement
By Caroline Brown at KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC)
· June 24, 2026
· 2 min read
When temperatures climb into the 90s, it’s easy to focus on staying cool ourselves. But there’s another summer hazard many pet owners don’t think about until it’s too late: hot pavement.Even though the air temperature may only be in the 90s, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots can become much h...
Key takeaway Even though the air temperature may only be in the 90s, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots can become much hotter after hours in the sun.
Why this matters in Magnolia News
For Magnolia residents, the hot pavement hazard is particularly relevant given the community's numerous sidewalks and parking lots. As the summer months bring temperatures into the 90s, pet owners should be mindful of the potential risks to their dogs' paws. The 7-second test is a simple yet effective way to ensure a safe walking surface, and locals can take advantage of the area's grassy parks and trails as an alternative to hot pavement. By scheduling walks during cooler parts of the day and choosing shaded paths, Magnolia dog owners can help prevent painful paw burns and keep their pets safe. This is especially important in areas with dark-colored pavement, such as asphalt parking lots, which can become extremely hot during the afternoon. By taking a few extra seconds to check the pavement, Magnolia residents can help protect their furry family members and enjoy the community's outdoor spaces without worry.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) . Magnolia News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: parks ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? When temperatures climb into the 90s, it’s easy to focus on staying cool ourselves. But there’s another summer hazard many pet owners don’t think about until it’s too late: hot pavement.Even though the air temperature may only be in the 90s, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots can become much h...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for Magnolia News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Caroline Brown at KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how Magnolia News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more parks coverage from Magnolia News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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