At Dix Park Dog Park, a group of dogs dubbed the "M and M crew" - Miso, Mia, Mocha and Milo - drew attention in red and black Carolina Hurricanes jerseys. But their time dressed up was brief before returning to the shade.
"So when we do put outfits on them, it's very short, very quick. We take in combination what the weather is, and it's quick, and then off because they overheat," said Savannah Blackburn of Raleigh.
The heat quickly took its toll on pets at the park, with some showing signs of thirst within minutes.
"Oh, yeah. For sure. I keep him prepared with water and little cups in the car. Yeah. Always have. You kind of keep an eye on him," said Dayerin Arias of Raleigh.
Pet owners also watch for behavioral signs that indicate when it's time to cool off.
"Oh well, he like, pants a lot when it's too hot, but like it's a mix of like, anxiety and excitement, and also the heat. So when he's panting really hard, that means he's like, he's done for. He's ready to go home, get some cool air, things like that," said Chelsie China of Raleigh.
Veterinarians warn that rising temperatures can quickly escalate from discomfort to serious health risks.
"So you can have a heat stress, and you can have a heat stroke. So heat stress is where they pant a lot, and it just takes them longer to recover. A heat stroke is where they actually, their body just kind of starts to shut down. But their tongues will get really, really big because that's the only way they can cool themselves," said Dr. Page Wages, a veterinarian.
Health experts say similar caution applies to people as well.
"Yeah. So my main recommendations would be, stay hydrated, before you even feel thirsty. Drink fluids consistently throughout the day and into the evening, and avoid peak hours, such as late morning through the early evening. If you can schedule your outdoor activities and exercise before the day really heats up or after the sun has set," said Dr. Kimberly Caulway, regional medical director at Duke Urgent Care.
Back at the park, the plan for the M and M crew on Thursday is simple: stay cool.
"We get into the pool. They all love water. So with them, it's. They jump in the pool with me and, of course, supervised. And we have a little splash pad for them to play on. But then inside air-conditioned vans running just to keep cool," Blackburn said.
With temperatures expected to climb, experts emphasize preparation and awareness to keep both people and pets safe from the heat.
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