You probably already know that one of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is to slather on a UVA/UVB sunscreen every day. This is particularly true in the summertime when UV rays are most intense. However, did you know that dogs can also benefit from sunscreen? Yes, and your dog may require the protection.
We’ve put together the following guide to assist you in better understanding why dog sunscreen is so important, where to apply it, and more, so get ready for your SPF study session!
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She designed and built her own clinic in 2007, realizing her dream of being her own boss. Serving as the county’s shelter veterinarian while running her clinic was another fulfilling responsibility. This gave her the chance to work with the rescue she adored while also helping many animals in her community. To relocate across the country in 2019, she sold her practice.
Veterinarian Beth Turner has worked in the field for more than 20 years. After completing her studies at North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, she started her career as an associate veterinarian and collaborated closely with the neighborhood shelter.
Should I Worry About My Dog Getting Sunburned?
Dogs can burn in the sun just like people can, especially on areas of the body with little to no hair.
According to Miami Veterinary Dermatology’s Millie Rosales DVM, DACVD, a sunburned dog may experience red, inflamed skin that is itchy and painful. Dogs who get sunburns may also experience hair loss and scaly skin.
Yes, you should put sunscreen on your dog.
Dogs with light skin and white hair or fur should especially wear sunscreen, according to Richard Goldstein, DVM, the chief medical officer of the Animal Medical Center in New York City. “Since a dog’s skin is susceptible to sun damage in a similar way to human skin, they too need to be protected from sunburn and skin cancer.” ”.
Dr. According to Rosales, exposure to the sun can cause certain canine skin cancers, such as:
If a dog must be outside during the peak sun exposure times (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), she advises: m. to 4 p. m. ), sunscreen should be reapplied to sun-sensitive body parts throughout the day, particularly the nose, lips, ears, groin, and belly.
Dr. Goldstein advises applying sunscreen again right away if the dog has been swimming.
Which Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Get Sunburned?
Compared to dogs with darker skin and thicker coats, white dogs with short hair, such as Bull Terriers, Pit Bulls, Dalmatians, French Bulldogs, Greyhounds, and Boxers, are more prone to sunburn. Goldstein points out.
However, despite the fact that these breeds are more likely to burn, all dog owners should think about using sunscreen for their canines in the summer.
FAQ
Can I use human sunscreen on my dog?
Do Not Use Human Sunscreen on Your Dog. Sunscreen for humans contains ingredients that make it risky to use on your pets. Avoid using sunscreen formulated for humans on your dog. Take great care not to apply any zinc oxide-containing sunscreen to your dog.
How do I know if my dog needs sunscreen?
- White fur and/or pink skin.
- Sparse or thin coats, or no fur at all.
- Light colored nose, eyelids, and ears.
- Excessive shedding or hair loss.
- Healing wounds or shaved surgery sites.
- Chronic skin conditions like dermatitis.
- Existing sunburns.
Do white dogs need sun protection?
According to Pletz, dogs can get sunburns from prolonged sun exposure just like humans can. “White dogs with short hair are most at risk, but all dogs can develop a vulnerability.” Other canine breeds that are susceptible to sunburn include the Chinese crested, xoloitzcuintli, and American hairless terrier.
Do black dogs need sun protection?
These dogs will need sun protection in the warmer months because any dog can get sunburned. Sun damage isn’t just a problem for dogs with short, white coats. Dogs with dark or black hair, according to Colorado State University, can also get sunburned