THE ARK IS WHERE
PETS PLAY ALL DAY!

The heat is high, the shedding is real, and your pup’s coat needs a little extra TLC during the dog days of summer. Whether they’re a floofy fluff ball or a sleek short-haired sweetheart, grooming plays a vital role in keeping pets cool, healthy, and oh-so-huggable this time of year. Here’s how to maintain your dog’s summer glow—from nose to tail. Why Summer Grooming Matters Summer grooming is about more than a cute cut—it’s a core part of your dog’s health and comfort. A properly groomed coat helps: Regulate body temperature Prevent matting and skin irritation Reduce shedding and dander Deter fleas and ticks Even short-haired breeds benefit from regular grooming to remove excess fur and keep their coat breathable. Trim, Don’t Shave (In Most Cases) We get it—shaving seems like a quick fix to beat the heat. But for many breeds, especially double-coated ones, shaving can actually do more harm than good. Instead: Schedule a trim to tidy up longer coats Use deshedding treatments to remove undercoat buildup Keep face, paw, and sanitary areas neatly clipped Ask our groomers for breed-specific recommendations—we’ll help you find the right style. Stick to a Schedule Bathing your dog every 4–6 weeks in summer keeps them clean without over-stripping their skin’s natural oils. If they’re extra active or a fan of mud puddles and swimming holes, we recommend: A rinse-off with water after outdoor fun Using a moisturizing dog shampoo to prevent dry skin A fresh blowout or conditioning treatment for extra fluff and softness Pay Attention to Paws and Nails Hot sidewalks, rough trails, and wet grass can be tough on sensitive paws. Keep your pup walking in comfort with: Nail trims (every 3–4 weeks is ideal) Paw pad trims to reduce heat retention Moisturizing paw balm for cracked or dry feet Add-On Services That Make a Difference Our summer grooming menu includes a few extra perks to help pups stay cool and clean: Shed control treatments Flea & tick bath Soothing skin & coat conditioners Paw balm add-on Breath freshening (because doggy kisses never go out of season) Book Ahead—Summer Fills Up Fast! Just like boarding, summer grooming slots go quickly. If your pup needs to be fresh for family photos, travel, or just staying cool during daycare, don’t wait to book. Call your nearest Ark location today—and let’s get your pup summer-ready.

Summer means sunshine, vacations, and outdoor adventures—but it also brings soaring temps, hot pavement, and unexpected risks for our furry friends. As much as dogs love the summer fun, they rely on us to keep them safe through it. At The Ark, we’re here to help you enjoy a fun and safe season with your pet. Here are our top summer safety tips every pet parent should know. Watch for Signs of Overheating Dogs can’t cool off like we do, so it’s easy for them to overheat—especially during playtime or walks. Warning signs of heatstroke: Heavy panting Excessive drooling Lethargy or wobbliness Vomiting Bright red or pale gums If your pet shows these signs, move them to a cool spot, offer water, and call your vet ASAP. Never Leave a Dog in a Hot Car Even with the windows cracked, a car can reach deadly temperatures in minutes. It’s not just dangerous—it’s illegal in many places. When in doubt, leave your pup safely at home. Protect Those Paws Sidewalks and asphalt get scorching hot and can burn your dog’s paws. A good rule of thumb: If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their feet. Tips: Walk early in the morning or after sunset Stick to grass or shaded areas Consider paw balm or booties for protection Hydration is Everything Always carry water when you’re out with your pup, especially during longer walks or park visits. Keep a portable bowl in your bag or car so your dog can sip anytime. Water Safety Counts Too Planning lake or pool days? Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and some may panic or tire quickly. Quick tips: Use a doggy life jacket for boating or swimming Rinse fur after swimming to remove chlorine or algae Watch out for blue-green algae—it’s toxic Flea, Tick & Sun Safety Summer is prime season for pests. Make sure your dog is on flea and tick prevention, and ask your vet about safe sunscreen options for light-colored or short-haired pups. Cool Treats & Toys Frozen dog treats (like our Pup-sicles), frozen Kongs, or lick mats can keep your pup cool and mentally stimulated. Summer should be full of tail wags, not vet visits. With these simple safety tips, you and your furry friend can enjoy the season to the fullest. Stay cool out there—and swing by anytime for grooming, treats, or summer supplies!