Protect Your Pet from the Sun

Protect Your Pet From the Sun

               Labor Day kicked off the unofficial start to summer and we celebrate the first official day of summer this week. With (hopefully!) more sun in the forecast, this means we need more protection from ultraviolet rays, and so do our pets.  We all know dogs (and to a lesser degree, cats) can suffer from heatstroke. But, did you know pets can also get sunburned?

               Short coated, light colored breeds like Dalmatians, Bulldogs, white Boxers, and, of course, hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested are at higher risk.  But any dog with light or white skin on their muzzle or ears can be affected.  White cats may also become sunburned and can be at risk for a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma on exposed areas with thin skin like the face and ears.  This can occur even in indoor cats who sun themselves on windowsills.

               So, how can you protect your pet from sunburn?  Try to limit your pets’ sun exposure during the hours of 10AM to 2PM when the sun’s rays are the strongest.  Don’t have dogs clipped down to the skin—a dog’s haircoat provides some protection against the sun.  If your pet will tolerate a t-shirt, this can provide some protection as well, and, dogs and cats can wear sunscreen, but there are a few precautions.

               For cats, your best bet is to purchase a product made specifically for cats, as many compounds found in human sunscreens are toxic to cats.  Limit application to the ears and top of the muzzle to try to prevent ingestion.  For dogs, there are many sunscreens made specifically for our canine companions, but you can also use sunscreens formulated for babies with an SPF of 15 or higher.  Just make sure any sunscreen you use on your pet does NOT contain zinc oxide or PABA, both of which can be toxic to pets. Titanium dioxide is generally safe.  Apply sunscreen to the top of a dog’s muzzle, top of head, ears, belly/groin and thighs or any exposed areas where the coat is very thin.  Avoid the eyes, and, you may need to distract your pup for a few minutes after application so he doesn’t immediately lick the sunscreen off.

               What if your pet does get sunburned?  The skin may look red and flaky like a human sunburn. Cool compresses and aloe or similar creams may provide some relief for mild sunburn. Severe sunburn may require oral pain medications and antibiotics and strict avoidance of the sun to prevent further damage, so contact your vet if your pet seems really uncomfortable.               

               Keep your pets safe and cool this summer, limit sun exposure, and remember to use PABA-free and zinc-free sunscreens on high-risk pets to prevent sunburn.

               This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-sunscreen/