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  • 1.  July is UV Awareness Month

    Posted 07-22-2025 02:12 PM

    July is UV Awareness Month! Ultraviolet (UV) radiation refers to a type of wavelength that is lower than visible light. The biggest exposure to UV radiation for people and pets comes from the sun. UV rays can be extremely harmful to our skin. They can cause burns that over time can possibly lead to skin cancer. The best way to prevent sunburn and skin cancer is to practice safe sun for you and your pet!



    It's important to check the UV index each day to see how strong the sun is. The index goes from 1 to 11+ and anything over 3 requires protection. Most weather apps tell you what the UV is. This screenshot from the Apple Weather app shows that the UV here in Knoxville, TN was 7 at 3pm today.


    For humans, practicing safe sun looks like:

    • Opting for shade when spending time outside
    • Wearing sunglasses, hats, and clothing that covers your skin. For added protection, look for clothes that are designated with an "Ultraviolet Protection Factor" (UPF) number on the label.
    • Using a sunscreen that is water resistant and has an SPF of 30 or higher. It is best to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or right after swimming or sweating.



    You can also practice safe sun with your pet:

    • Make sure that they have access to shade if they are spending time outside.
    • Go for walks in the morning or evening, instead of the middle of the day, when the UV isn't as high.
    • Use sunscreen! There is sunscreen made specifically for pets. It's best to apply it to areas that were the fur is thin or light colored, especially the ears, nose, and belly.


    As you enjoy the outdoors this summer, make sure to look out for yourself and for your pet! Do you or your organization do anything to remind your clients about the dangers of too much sun exposure?


    References:

    Practice Safe Sun

    Ultraviolet radiation

    Sunburn in pets - PDSA



    ------------------------------
    Kaitlyn Davis
    Research Associate
    UTK Program for Pet Health Equity
    TN
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  • 2.  RE: July is UV Awareness Month

    Posted 07-23-2025 12:13 PM

    Thank you for bringing up this important topic, Kaitlyn. I have definitely made a habit of checking for the UV index each day before leaving home and planning accordingly. As the temperature rose back up this year, I had noticed that I have not been very intentional in wearing weather-appropriate fabrics in >90° weather. Luckily, a friend that covers up all year round let me know that linen and cotton were the best materials to wear around this time and it has been making a huge difference!

    I actually stumbled across this article that Red Cross published last week about keeping pets safe during hot weather. I am always happy to see organizations acknowledging how the wellbeing of pets impact the family. One of their social media posts on the topic reads, "We won't stop you if you want to fry an egg on the sidewalk but please don't do it to your dog's paws!" 😅



    ------------------------------
    Kayla Anderson
    Veterinary Social Worker
    Program for Pet Health Equity
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    Original Message


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