On a hot, sunny day we make sure to be sun smart by slip, slop, slapping!
But what about our dogs?
Here are our tips to keeping your pooch sun safe this Summer!
1. Provide shade
One of the easiest ways to protect your dog from the sun is by providing plenty of shade as well as fresh water. Keeping water in the shade also helps keep it cool.
These 2 simple things could also help keep your pet protected from heat stroke
2. Consider protective clothing
Rashies are a great way to keep your pet protected from harmful sun rays. The Ezy Dog Rashie has a 50+ UV sun protection, is light weight and comfortable.
3. Limit sunbathing
Sunbathing can increase a pet’s risk of sun burn and skin cancers. In particular, short haired, no haired or light coloured pets tend to be most at risk, especially if they love to show their bellies to the sun like Rosie & Gus below!
4. Use a dog-friendly sunscreen
Did you know there are specific pet sunscreens? We use Filtabac here at Lynbrook Vet as it is an antibacterial, antiseptic and wound protectant cream with sun filter for use on dogs, horses, cattle, sheep and goats.
It provides effective protection against sun for sensitive or damaged skin, as well as anti-bacterial activity for wounds and skin conditions.
It is very important to note that human sunscreens cannot be used on pets and could cause more harm than good!
5. Play inside!
This is an obvious one . . . Indoors = No Sun = Sun Smart!
6. Avoid walks on concrete on hot days
Apart from being in the sun more directly, our pet’s paws are also exposed to the hot conditions of concrete footpaths which too can cause burns or abrasions.
7. Get your dog’s skin checked regularly
Getting your dog’s skin looked at regularly helps us catch any potentially nasty skin cancers that could be growing.
It is also helpful to look at any changes in skin pigmentation, texture or behaviour changes- especially after a hot day.
If you have any concerns about your pet, don’t hesitate to contact us on (03) 8373 0301
