Sunscreen for dogs: A vet shares unexpected insights on its necessity
As summer approaches, it's important to remember that our furry friends need protection from the sun's harmful UV rays just as much as we do. Here's a guide to help you choose the best dog-safe sunscreens and apply them correctly.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Your Dog
When selecting a sunscreen for your dog, opt for products specifically formulated for pets. These sunscreens are free of harmful ingredients like PABA, zinc oxide, or synthetic fragrances, and contain natural, non-toxic ingredients with UV protection.
Some top options include Aloha Dog Natural Sunscreen, Sit. Stay. Forever Organic Sunscreen & Moisturizer, and Pet Sun Protection Balm. These sunscreens offer protection and hydration, are waterproof, and suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.
Applying Sunscreen Correctly
Applying sunscreen on your dog should be done about 20 minutes before sun exposure to allow absorption. Reapply every 4-6 hours or if the dog gets wet. Focus on areas with light or no fur such as the snout, tips of ears, belly, armpits, and inner thighs because these spots are most vulnerable to sunburn.
Avoid contact with eyes and do a small patch test first to check for allergic reactions. Prevent your dog from licking off the sunscreen initially by distracting them with treats such as frozen dog-safe peanut butter on a lick mat.
Why Human Sunscreens Aren't Suitable for Dogs
Human sunscreens should never be used on dogs as they often contain toxic chemicals. Mineral UV filters like titanium dioxide are considered pet-safe and effective; zinc oxide, though common, can be risky if ingested.
Special Considerations for Certain Dogs
Dogs with immune-mediated skin problems like Discoid Lupus Erythematous (DLE) may benefit from UV nose guards to reduce UV damage to the nose. If an urgent need for dog sunscreen arises and a pet-specific one is unavailable, a baby sunscreen with SPF over 15 (without zinc oxide) can be used as a temporary solution.
Dogs with clipped fur, thin-furred, or hairless areas are more prone to sunburn. In such cases, a UV-protective thin dog t-shirt can be a safer alternative.
Other Sun Safety Tips for Dogs
Besides sunscreen, provide shade and avoid peak sun hours to minimize UV exposure. Playing in the water can help cool off dogs, but it's important to do it little and often to prevent water intoxication and wash off sunscreen.
Avoiding the sun in the hottest part of the day reduces heatstroke and sunburn risks for dogs. Keeping dogs in the shade can protect them from UV radiation and sunburn. Noses may benefit from balm-based sunscreens for easier application and longer-lasting protection.
Hot pavements and patios can burn a dog's paws, so protective booties or cooling off parts of the garden with a hose can help. SPF is the measure of sunscreen's protection from the sun, with at least SPF15 recommended.
Walking dogs in the cool early morning is recommended to avoid heat exposure, but missing a walk won't harm the dog if an early-morning walk isn't possible. Remember, keeping your dog safe from the sun's harmful rays is essential for their health and wellbeing.
[1] Aloha Dog Natural Sunscreen: [URL] [2] Sit. Stay. Forever Organic Sunscreen & Moisturizer: [URL] [3] Pet Sun Protection Balm: [URL]
- In the realm of pet care, it's advisable to use sunscreens specifically formulated for pets, due to their non-toxic, pet-safe ingredients.
- When applying sunscreen to your dog, pay attention to light or no fur areas, like the snout, belly, armpits, and inner thighs, as they are more susceptible to sunburn.
- Human sunscreens shouldn't be applied to dogs due to their harmful chemical contents, and instead, pet-safe mineral UV filters like titanium dioxide should be used.
- Dogs with skin problems or hairless areas may need UV nose guards, UV-protective dog t-shirts, or temporary solutions like baby sunscreens with high SPF and no zinc oxide, to reduce sunburn risks.
