How to Avoid Pet Sunburn
Spring has sprung and summer is right around the corner. It's the perfect time to let your pet outside to soak up sun and enjoy the great outdoors if the proper precautions are taken.
We tend to take care of ourselves when we spend a lot of time outside, slathering on the sunscreen to make sure we don't have to suffer the discomfort of sunburn, but most people don't realize our pets are just as vulnerable as we are.
All dogs are vulnerable to sunburn, but pale and
short-haired dogs are particulary vulnerable. Short legged dogs, small and toy breeds, are more prone to get sunburn because being close to the ground means they face extra risk from sunlight being reflected from the ground, in addition to the direct light from above.
Our feline friends can get sunburn just as easily as our canine friends. White cats, or cats with white ears and faces, are particularly susceptible to sunburn.
You can help your pet avoid sunburn by following the same practices that we use:
Stay out of the sun at the peak hours - from noon to 3pm. This applies year-round, because sun exposure is sun exposure, regardless of whether it's summer, winter, spring or fall.
Use sunblock - Apply sunblock to the bridge of the nose, ear tips and other small, sensitive areas whenever your pet is outside for more than a few minutes. It's not a good idea to use a human suncreeen on your pets because many human-grade products are toxic to animals, especially those that contain PABA or zinc oxide. The only FDA approved sunscreen for dogs is Epi-Pet Sun Protector. The makers of Epi-Pet don't currently have sunscreen for cats. For our feline friends, the best advice is to avoid products with Octyl Salicylate, Homosalate and Ethylhexyl Salicylate.
Cover Up - Consider some sort of covering for your dog. Some veterinarians say the most important and effective protection is a type of bodysuit for dogs, which is designed to block ultraviolet rays and prevent sunburn.
Our furry friends still need the opportunity to run and play outside, but use these tips to make sure both you and your pets enjoy the great outdoors.
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Wheaton Way Veterinary Clinic is a full-service veterinary medical facility, located in Bremerton, WA. The professional and courteous staff at Wheaton Way Veterinary Clinic seeks to provide the best possible medical care, surgical care and dental care for their highly-valued patients.
We are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for our clients. Wheaton Way Veterinary Clinic strives to offer excellence in veterinary care to Bremerton, WA and surrounding areas.
Please take a moment to contact us today, to learn more about our veterinary practice and to find our more information about how Wheaton Way Veterinary Clinic can serve the needs of you and your cherished pet.