Sun, Shade & Pet First Aid- Your June Newsletter from Little Woods Animal Hospital
Welcome to Summer at Little Woods!
Hello Little Woods family,
Summer is here in full swing, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the sunshine, longer days, and all the pet-friendly outdoor adventures Arkansas has to offer. As we step into June, it's important to remember that with the fun comes added responsibility for our furry friends. Whether you're hiking in the Ozarks, playing in the backyard, or planning a summer road trip, we’re here to help you make this season safe, healthy, and joyful for your pets.
This month's newsletter is packed with tips tailored for our local Arkansas environment, reminders for preventive care, exciting updates from the clinic, and even a few heartwarming stories from our community. So grab an iced tea, cuddle up with your pet, and dive in!
June Pet Wellness Tips – Arkansas Edition
Arkansas summers are hot, humid, and full of outdoor activity. Here are some locally relevant health and safety tips to keep your pets feeling their best:
1. Avoid the Heat of the Day
Temperatures in Arkansas can soar above 90°F in June. For dogs, early morning or late evening walks are safer. Pavement gets extremely hot and can burn your pet’s paw pads—try the “7-second rule”: if you can’t hold your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
2. Stay on Top of Flea, Tick & Mosquito Prevention
Our humid climate means bugs are booming. Fleas and ticks can cause skin issues and transmit diseases like Lyme or ehrlichiosis, while mosquitoes spread deadly heartworms. Monthly prevention is a must—ask us about options like Simparica Trio, NexGard, or Advantage Multi.
3. Watch Out for Local Wildlife
Arkansas is home to snakes like copperheads, timber rattlers, and water moccasins, especially in wooded or rural areas. Keep dogs on a leash when hiking, and avoid letting cats roam where they could encounter wildlife. If your pet is bitten, seek emergency care immediately.
4. Grass Seeds & Foxtails
After hikes or walks through tall grass, check between your pet’s toes, ears, and underarms for sharp seeds or burrs that can embed in the skin and cause infection. You may not notice them right away, but symptoms like licking or limping can appear days later.
5. Be Allergy Aware
Pollen, mold, and grasses can trigger seasonal allergies in pets just like they do in people. If your pet is scratching more than usual, biting at paws, or has red or inflamed ears, they might be suffering from allergies. We offer testing and treatment plans to keep them comfortable.
Summer Travel Tips for Pet Owners
Planning a weekend trip to Hot Springs or heading out of town for a summer vacation? Whether your pet is joining you on the road or staying with a trusted sitter, it’s important to plan ahead so everyone stays safe and stress-free.
Here are some helpful travel tips for Arkansas pet parents:
If Your Pet is Traveling With You:
Pack the essentials: Bring your pet’s food, medications, leash, ID tags, vet records, and a few familiar items like a favorite blanket or toy.
Use safe restraints: In the car, pets should be secured with a harness seatbelt or inside a travel crate to avoid distractions and protect them in case of sudden stops.
Avoid hot cars: Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside can rise dangerously fast—even with the windows cracked.
Take breaks: Stop every 2–3 hours for water, potty breaks, and a stretch—especially for dogs.
If Your Pet is Staying Behind:
Choose a trusted pet sitter or family member: Look for someone familiar with your pet and comfortable handling any special needs or medications.
Leave detailed care instructions: Include feeding schedules, medication doses, your vet’s contact info, and emergency procedures.
Make sure vaccines are current: If your sitter or boarding facility requires updated vaccinations (like rabies or Bordetella), we’re happy to help schedule those ahead of time.
Have a backup contact: In case you're unreachable, provide a trusted local friend or relative the sitter can contact for urgent decisions.
Need vaccine updates or medication refills before your trip? Give us a call at (501) 422-6155, and we’ll help you get vacation-ready!
Client Education Corner: “What Is Heartworm Disease?”
Arkansas is in the top tier for heartworm cases in the U.S. due to our climate. Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes, and once infected, dogs can suffer from heart failure, lung disease, and even death. Cats can get them too—even indoor cats!
Prevention is the key. Monthly heartworm preventatives are safe, affordable, and effective. Treatment, on the other hand, can take months and cost over $1,000. We recommend testing pets annually, even those on prevention, to catch any unexpected exposures.
Have questions about the right product for your pet? Just ask!
Staff Picks: Summer Essentials We Recommend
Cooler Pup Mats – Great for hot days, these gel mats help pets regulate their temperature.
Tick Removal Kits – Keep one in your car or hiking bag just in case.
Sunscreen for Dogs – Yes, it exists! Especially helpful for light-colored or short-haired dogs.
Life Jackets – If your pet joins you on the boat, a well-fitting life vest is essential.
These are available in most pet stores or online, and we can help recommend the best brands for your breed or activity level.
🐕 Thank You for Being Part of the Little Woods Family
We know you have choices when it comes to your pet’s care, and we’re honored you choose us. At Little Woods, we believe in treating your pets like family—because they are. Whether you’re a new client or have been with us for years, thank you for trusting us to care for your companions.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and tail-wagging summer!
With gratitude,
The Little Woods Animal Hospital Team
