Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – June 19, 2024 – As a dog mom of three, I’m taking summer heat precautions very seriously. As temperatures rise in this Arkansas June, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of your dog. High temperatures and longer sun hours pose risks to our fur babies, so here are some important tips to keep your pets cool and protected.

  • Hydration is the most important

Dogs can become dehydrated quickly, especially when they are active outside. Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times. When on longer walks, be sure to carry a portable water bowl and enough water for both you and your pet. Signs of dehydration in dogs include excessive panting, dry gums, lethargy, and sunken eyes. If you notice any of these symptoms, provide water immediately.

  • Avoid them becoming overheated in the first place

Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat to cool down – they rely on panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. To prevent overheating, limit your dog’s outdoor activities to the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. If they’re an outdoor dog, check the weather regularly and consider sending them to Hound’s Hideaway on hot days so they get some inside time (and interactions with other dogs).  Always avoid walking during peak heat hours, and never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes. The temperature inside a car can get to dangerous levels within minutes, leading to heatstroke and suffocation. 

  • You wear shoes, they don’t. Protect their paws from burns. 

Pavement, sand, and other surfaces can become extremely hot and burn your dog’s paws. Before taking your dog for a walk, check the temperature of the pavement with the back of your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog, even if it’s cloudy. Opt for grassy areas, or grab dog booties at Hollywood Feed to protect their paws. Walking during cooler times of the day also helps reduce the risk of burns.

  • Dogs can get sunburn, too

Dogs, especially those with short or light-colored coats, are prone to sunburn and skin cancer. Apply a pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas, such as the nose, ears, and belly, which you can also find at Hollywood Feed. 

  • If they’re a lake/river dog, don’t forget water safety

Many dogs love to swim, but not all are natural swimmers. Always supervise your dog around water, whether it’s a pool, lake, or ocean. Consider investing in a dog life jacket, especially if they’re older or a puppy. After swimming, rinse your dog to remove chlorine or salt, which can irritate the skin. Some algae is also toxic and bacteria sits in still water, so don’t let them drink the water, as it can lead to infection. 

  • Insect protection

Since Arkansas is packed with fleas, ticks, and mosquitos, be mindful to remember that these pests can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and heartworm. Use veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventatives, avoid walking your dog in tall grass or wooded areas, and check your dogs regularly. 

  • Groom, But Don’t Shave…. 

Regular grooming helps maintain your dog’s coat and skin health. Brush your dog frequently to remove loose fur and prevent matting, which can trap heat. However, avoid shaving your dog’s coat completely, as their fur provides protection against sunburn and aids in temperature regulation. Consult your groomer for advice on the best grooming practices for your dog’s breed.