MACON, Ga. — All summer we've told you how to protect yourself when outside in the summer heat.
The sun can be harmful to human skin but what about our furry friends? The sun can feel like it is out with a vengeance, especially during the summertime.
When you have to do things like walk your dog, how does the sun affect them? Can dogs get sunburned?
Delmarie Haymon's dog, Coco, is 11 years old. She tries to keep Coco indoors where it's cool, or let her outside when it is not too hot out.
"We are out early in the morning, or late afternoon so shes not in the direct heat all the time," Haymon said.
Dr. Jeff Brantley, a veterinarian at Brantley and Jordan Animal Hospital in Macon, says dogs can get sunburned.
"Certain dogs definitely can. We have a problem with dogs that don't have pigment on their nose and ears at times that can have sun damage," Brantley said.
So, it is verified. Dogs can get sunburned, but some dogs are at a higher risk. Brantley says dogs with less pigment in their skin and shorter hair can burn easier.
He suggests keeping them in a shaded area outside, and putting dog sunscreen on the nose, ears, around the eyelids, and on the body when necessary.
Haymon says she'll do what she can to protect Coco.
"You love them like you love your family, and you wanna protect them the same way," said Haymon.
Brantley says sun damage can lead to sores and an autoimmune disease. He says cats with lighter skin are also at a higher risk of getting a sunburn too.