Just like humans, dogs can suffer from painful and dangerous sunburns, especially during those hot summer days. Sunburn not only causes discomfort but can also increase the risk of skin cancer - the most common form of cancer in our furry friends.
Read on to find out how to protect your dog and ensure they stay safe under the sun.
The Signs Of Sunburn In Dogs
The signs of sunburn include reddened skin that is tender to the touch and may appear dry, cracked, or even curled at the edges. It is usually painful, and your dog may itch the site, whimper, or shy away when touched in the sensitive area.
Severe sunburn can cause inflammation and blistering of the skin, and your dog may develop a slight fever. Canine skin cancers linked to sunburn include squamous cell carcinoma and hemangiosarcoma.
Although dogs do not burn as easily as humans, the incidence of sunburn and related skin cancer appears to be on the rise in the UK. Lighter-coloured breeds and those with fine or short coats are most at risk, such as Beagles, Boxers, Dalmatians, Greyhounds, Weimaraners, Whippets, and hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested.
White-coated German Shepherds and Staffordshire Bull Terriers are also vulnerable. However, all dogs, regardless of their coat type, have areas with less fur that are susceptible to sunburn. The nose, ears, around the eyes, and tummy are the most vulnerable spots
Dogs that enjoy lying on their backs with their tummies exposed are especially at risk, as sunlight can reflect off the ground and burn the underbelly. Dogs with thin coats due to other conditions, such as flea allergy dermatitis or areas of scar tissue, are also at a higher risk.
Protecting Your Dog From Sunburn
Preventing sunburn is the best course to protect your dog, and it can be done with a few simple precautions:
- Avoid peak sun hours: Keep your dog inside during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11 am and 4 pm, and ensure they have access to plenty of water. Beware of heatstroke too.
- Provide shade: If your dog is outside, make sure they have access to a shaded area. This could be a shelter in the garden, the shade of a tree, or even a large umbrella when you’re out and about. However, remember that shade alone may not offer 100% UV protection.
- Use dog-friendly sunscreen: Apply a pet-safe sunscreen to areas most susceptible to sunburn, such as the nose, ears, and belly. Avoid sunscreens made for humans, as they may contain chemicals that are toxic to dogs if licked or ingested.
- Consider sun-protective clothing: If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, consider investing in a doggy sun shirt that offers greater coverage and protection from harmful UV rays.
- Mind the clip length: If your dog requires regular grooming, be careful not to clip their coat too short in the summer. Ensure sufficient coat length to protect their skin from the sun. At Masterclip, we offer a range of clipper blades and comb guards to help you choose the right length for your dog.
What To Do If Your Dog Gets Sunburnt
Despite your best efforts, if your dog does get sunburned, here are some steps to take:
- Mild sunburn: Treat mild cases at home with cold compresses to reduce pain and prevent further damage. Aloe vera gel, free of alcohol and additives, can also be soothing.
- Moderate to severe sunburn: If the sunburn is more severe, painful, or covers a large area, consult your vet. They can provide medicated treatments, and in some cases, daily wound cleaning and dressing may be necessary.
- Monitor for complications: Keep an eye on the sunburned area for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. If any of these occur, seek veterinary advice promptly.
Sun Safe Tips For Dogs
- Hydration is key: Ensure your dog stays well-hydrated, especially in hot weather. Offer water frequently and consider carrying a portable water bowl when out and about.
- Paw protection: Hot pavement can also cause burns on your dog’s paws. If the ground is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Avoid walking during peak heat.
- Regular skin checks: Regularly check your dog’s skin for any signs of sunburn, irritation, or unusual growths, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. Early detection is key to preventing more serious issue which is where regular grooming can help to spot the signs of any issues early on for timely intervention.
Summary
Keep your dog safe this summer with the right grooming and protective care
Vulnerable breeds : Lighter-coloured and short-coated breeds, such as Dalmatians, Whippets, and Beagles, are at higher risk, but all dogs can be affected.
Protection is essential : Shield your dog from sunburn by avoiding peak sunlight, providing shade, and applying dog-friendly sunscreen on exposed areas like the nose, ears, and belly.
Watch for signs : Reddened, cracked, or blistered skin are all signs of sunburn. If you spot these, use cold compresses for mild cases or seek veterinary care for severe burns.
For advice on the best clipping and grooming products to keep your dog’s coat in top shape, contact us today !
