Will freshly set concrete burn my dogs paws?

September 20, 2010 1:44 AM

Will freshly set concrete burn my dogs paws?

I finished pouring a concrete run (C20 mix, 1.8m2) for my Springer Spaniel yesterday @ 4pm- around 15 deg C. On checking this morning, the concrete is well set, and looks okay to use. I know there are various burn inducing components in the cement component itself, but I'd like to find out whether or not it's safe to let the pup use the run, without resulting chemical burns to his pads?

posted by Joe Rocket to Home & Garden (6 answers total)

My dog and I live in a densely populated urban environment, where there is often freshly poured concrete as the city tries to maintain its infrastructure. He trots over it with no ill effect. Some people actually press their pets' paws into the stuff. I don't endorse that and I don't like those people, but I'm pretty sure it's not permanently damaging their pets.
posted by trip and a half at 3:34 AM on September 20, 2010

Can't answer your question directly, but it sure as hell burns my hands. I'd be very reluctant to let my dog walk on it.
posted by aqsakal at 3:51 AM on September 20, 2010

Best answer: If it's actually set, then your dog should be fine. If it's still slightly liquid, then don't let him on it, because me might get some stuck between his pads and you'll have not a lot of fun getting it out.
posted by Solomon at 3:56 AM on September 20, 2010

Should be fine. It's wet concrete that's the problem.
posted by electroboy at 6:35 AM on September 20, 2010

Best answer: It probably won't hurt your dog as long as it is hard but concrete should be cured 2-3 days before being used; your dog's nails are probably hard enough to mar green concrete. The concrete should be kept moist for those three days so if it isn't raining you should cover the concrete with a sheet of plastic.
posted by Mitheral at 7:39 AM on September 20, 2010

It's safe.
posted by JJ86 at 7:40 AM on September 20, 2010