Plus, how to spot if they have been sunburnt
Advice on how to spot the signs of sunburn in dogs and how to protect them from skin cancer.
Dogs love to head outside during the hot summer months. From beach trips to running around the park and heading on dog-friendly staycations, there are plenty of ways for them to soak up the sun. But it’s vital that owners ensure their dogs are cool and comfortable in the heat and learn how to quickly spot any signs of skin cancer.
Caused by over exposure to the sun, skin cancer is most common with dogs who have a thin coat or a lack of fur. Studies conducted by the Bluecross have shown that compulsive licking in certain areas can also damage the skin and cause a greater chance of skin cancer.
Signs your dog is sunburnt
Similar to humans, you will notice red patches on your dog’s skin. Lumps, bumps and changes in the texture of their skin could be a sign of something more serious.
Some of the most common areas for dogs to get sunburnt are…
- ear tips
- the belly
- skin around the lips
- the bridge of the nose
How can you protect your dog from sunburn?
“From using sun-screen wipes to knowing the early signs of sun damage, it’s important for owners to be clued-up on how to properly protect their dogs,” Richard Stetterwall, general manager at Rover, explained to the Metro.
“What’s more, overheating can also cause heat stroke in dogs – a state of extreme hyperthermia – so it’s really important to make sure you’re taking the proper precautions whilst your dog’s enjoying the sun.”
Some easy ways you can protect dogs while they play outside include…
- Using a dog suncream spray (or sunscreen wipes if you find this easier)
- Get your dog a sunhat to reduce the risk of sunstroke
- Remember to reapply sunscreen if your dog runs into water
- Limit your dog’s exposure during the hottest times of the day
- Create a shaded space for your dog to relax outside
Monitor your dog’s sun exposure, keeping a close eye on how long they spend in the sun. During the height of summer it can be tempting to spend most of the day outside with your pup, but remember to check their skin regularly and continue to apply sunscreen.
Do head to your local vet if you notice your dog’s sunburn may seem more severe!
From: Country Living
