Spending time outdoors is an excellent way to bond with your pup, get some exercise, and enjoy the summertime. As summer marches on, no one is a stranger to the uncomfortable outcome of forgetting to apply sunscreen. Did you know your dog can get sunburned as well? During the hot months, protecting our furry friends against the sun’s rays is just as crucial as protecting our own.
Some dogs are at higher risk than others. Pups with light skin or white fur are more likely to experience burns. If you have any of the following breeds, you may consider taking extra precautions against sun damage:
- Pitbull
- French Bulldog
- Bull Terrier
- Dalmatian
- Greyhound
- Boxer
Without proper protection, your canine could suffer from dry skin, hair loss, red or inflamed skin, and even certain skin cancers. Unfortunately, dog fur does not keep Fido 100% safe from UV rays. However, there are plenty of options that you can use to help protect your dog’s skin this summer!
Dog-Safe Sunscreen
Sunscreen seems like a no-brainer, considering we use it to protect our skin! Luckily, our furry counterparts have their own dog-safe sunscreen that works just as well as ours.
When applying, focus on sensitive areas or areas not fully protected by dark fur. This can include your furball’s belly, ears, nose, paws, and other areas with light fur. Reapply frequently depending on how much time you’ll be spending in the sun, and if you can, try to avoid peak sun exposure hours. A good rule of thumb for reapplication is to do the same for your puppy when you need to reapply.
Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen
K-9 Care is an FDA-approved, strong SPF sunscreen that is great for over-the-coat sun protection. This sunscreen applies easily onto your pup’s entire body and conditions their skin and coat. This scent-free sunscreen will protect your pet from all types of body irritation.
Lucky Pup Sunscreen Dog Balm
Lucky Pup offers a safe sun solution for dogs that may not need full-body sun protection. This balm protects your canine’s nose, paws, and ears. It is free of scents and flavors and will even withstand water. Reapply hourly for best results.
Protective Sun Clothing
No worries if sprays and balms aren’t for you or your pup. Dog clothes can provide ample protection against the sun’s rays while creating a stylish look. If you do choose to dress your dog, keep an eye on them and watch for signs of dehydration or overheating.
PlayaPup Dog Sun Shirt
PlayaPup protects your pet from 98% of harmful rays! This body suit is comfortable and lightweight, allowing plenty of movement and fun in the sun. This shirt is cost-effective and high quality and comes in various sizes to fit any breed, small or large!
YAODHAOD Dog Baseball Cap
This durable baseball hat for dogs offers a comfortable and fashionable way to keep your pooch safe from the sun. The large brim provides eye protection and keeps the direct sun off your dog’s face. The two ear holes and chin strap secure this hat for your canine to wear at any event!
Curing Sunburns
Of course, these methods of avoiding sunburns are not foolproof, and accidents happen. Luckily, there are stress-free ways of soothing or curing sunburns so your pooch isn’t in pain!
A cool compress or an ointment can help stop the heat sensations from a pesky burn. If your pet has dry skin or irritation, consider an oatmeal bath to exfoliate and soothe the burned areas. Furthermore, your four-legged friends can benefit from certain oils. Aloe vera and coconut oil are both beneficial for soothing burns.
Whether you’re spending an afternoon on the lake or just enjoying a quick lunchtime walk around the neighborhood, investing in any of the previously mentioned preventative solutions can allow you and your dog to enjoy your time outdoors without battling the stress of sunburns.