If ingested it can be poisonous, and since dogs love to lick their skin, this would be a great risk to them. Human sunscreen can harm your pet because it contains toxic ingredients PABA and zinc oxide. There are some dogs who are more at risk than others, though, including:īefore you start to apply your own sunscreen to your dog, stop what you are doing. While dogs have natural protection from the sun due to their fur, they have several exposed areas that can be harmed, such as the nose and ears.Ĭhronic sunburn and prolonged time in the sun causes skin diseases and cancerous tumors over time. ![]() Why Do Dogs Need Sunscreen?ĭogs need protection from the ultraviolet rays because they can become burned or suffer skin damage that, over time, can lead to certain types of skin cancer. Your friends at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital are here to explain the advantages of sun protection and dog sunblock, so we can help your pet enjoy a great, burn-free summer. The simple answer is yes, but there are a few steps to consider before you grab a bottle of that dog sunblock. Many pet owners ask us if their dog should wear sunscreen. Sun protection is important for everyone, and that also includes our pet companions. Intense ultraviolet rays not only cause damage to the skin but can increase cancer risk. If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.Before most of us venture out in the sun, we have the ritual of putting sunscreen on. Protect yourself from the sun’s damaging rays this summer, but don’t forget to protect your pet too! Diagnosing skin cancer early can lead to a better prognosis. Be on the lookout for suspicious skin lesions and take your pet to the veterinarian if you have any concerns. Make sure you follow these precautions this summer, especially if you have a pet at risk for skin cancer. So before you reach for the sunscreen, I always recommend you check with your vet to be sure it is ok for your particular pet. Sunscreens containing Octyl Salicylate, Homosalate, and Ethylhexyl Salicylate (common ingredients in sunscreens) can be toxic to cats. Sunscreens containing zinc oxide can be toxic if ingested and never use a product on a cat unless it is clearly labeled for use in cats. But before you lather your pet, a few words of caution: I recommend only using a veterinary approved sunscreen like Doggles Sunscreen or Epi-Pet Sun Protector Sunscreen for dogs. Many human sunscreens contain ingredients that can be toxic if your pet licks it off or ingests the sunscreen. Just make sure to avoid getting it in their eyes. If your pet can’t stay out of the sun or you can’t dress your pet in protective sun wear, consider using pet sunscreen on your pet’s ear tips, nose and other areas vulnerable to sun damage. You can also use a light t-shirt to help cover hairless bellies. ![]() There are several companies that make pet clothing with solar protection. If your pet seems to worship the sun and always wants to lie down in full-sun to catch some rays, consider protective clothing. A good rule of thumb is if it is peak tanning hour this is not when you want your pet outside. This is usually in the afternoon between 11 am to 3 pm, but obviously depends on where you live. Keep your pets indoors when the sun is strongest. So what can you do to protect your pets this summer? Also, pets with light skin and short or thin hair, like white cats, are also more susceptible to developing skin cancer, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. ![]() Areas like the ears, nose, lips, eyelids and belly often have little to no hair on them and thus are very susceptible to sun damage. In addition, it is important to realize that even pets with hair can be vulnerable to the sun’s harmful rays. ![]() However, hairless cat and dog breeds, like the Sphynx and Mexican Hairless dog, respectively, are highly susceptible to sunburns and skin cancer. Most dogs and cats have hair that protects them from sun damage. Excess sun exposure can lead to sunburns and skin cancer in our animal friends. MacPete, find her on Facebook or at Did you know pets get skin cancer too? Just like us, dogs and cats are susceptible to sun damage. Ruth MacPete talks about the importance of protecting your pet's skin from the sun's harmful rays.
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