Is It Possible For A Dog To Get Sunburned?

Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/can-dog-sunburn/

There is nothing quite like spending a day in the sunshine. It’s a great way to relax or perhaps to get a little active and work off some pent-up frustration. It’s also something that we enjoy sharing, so it’s not unusual to take our furry best friend along with us for a day outdoors.

This may leave us wondering, is it possible for a dog to get sunburned?

Absolutely it is!

In fact, there are some signs that can let you know that your dog has had too much time in the sun and that it is time to take action. Perhaps their skin is a little pink looking or it may be sensitive when you touch it.

adorable 1849992 1280 - Is It Possible For A Dog To Get Sunburned? — Photo: Pixabay

Just as you wouldn’t want to expose yourself to the sun for too long and get a sunburn, you also wouldn’t want to allow your dog to get a sunburn. After all, it’s an uncomfortable situation but it can also be harmful. In some cases, dogs that have been sunburned repeatedly may develop skin cancer. It is the most common cancer type found in canines.

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Now that we have you concerned about taking your little friend out in the sun, it’s time to put your mind at ease. Just as it is possible to protect yourself from the sun’s rays, it is also possible to protect your pet. Taking preventative measures by applying a child-safe SPF 30-50 sunscreen is an important part of the process. Make sure that you get the sensitive areas as well, including their ear flaps and nose.

dog 3034941 1280 - Is It Possible For A Dog To Get Sunburned? — Photo: Pixabay

If your dog has been outside for a long time or goes in the water, you should reapply the sunscreen. There are some that are waterproof, but most of them require that you will reapply the sunscreen on a regular basis.

Perhaps the most important thing that you can do is to limit the exposure to the harmful sun and keep your dog out of the sun, if at all possible, during the peak hours of the day. Also, your dog may be susceptible to some reflected sunlight from the ground underneath, especially if they are on the beach or a reflective surface, such as a sidewalk.