Sun Exposure Stressing Your Pet?

Sun Safety for Hairless and Single-Coated Pets

Summer is in full swing….

Time to play frisbee, run through the sprinkler, hike, and do all kinds of activities with our furry (and non-furry) friends!

Did you know that pets who are going to be in the sun for more than 15 minutes at a time need sunscreen just like humans?

UV exposure greatly increases the risk of sunburn, even in pets with fur. Skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer among dogs, both locally and metastatic, and over 80% of skin cancers are preventable!

Pets with exposed skin are also more susceptible to environmental toxins, creating sensitivity and allergic reactions.

Care should be taken to keep skin hydrated and supple while avoiding your pet’s sensitivities, whatever those might be….such as bees, flower blossoms, lawn chemicals, and even fruits and vegetables in your garden!

Curious as to what may be contributing to changes in your pet’s delicate skin?

We can bioenergetically test your pet for sensitivities and nutritional imbalances that may contribute to itching, redness, inflammation, and lots more!

Click here to see our range of tests.

Sun and Environmental Sensitivity Exposure Tips

Here are some important things to keep in mind to ensure your pet is safe and happy while enjoying the summer sun!

  • Whether your pet has fur or not, make sure to put pet-safe sunblock on areas of exposed skin, such as the nose, insides of ears, and areas where there may be little fur, such as elbows, bellies, and the insides of legs.

 

  • The most common sites for skin cancer…For rabbits and guinea pigs: the ears, head, and hind limbs. For cats: the nose, mouth, ears, and eyelids. For dogs: the ears, lips, hind limbs, head, rump, and abdomen.

 

  • DO NOT use sunblock meant for humans on your pet! Be sure to avoid products with zinc oxide like many sunblocks and rash creams contain, as these can induce anemia in your pet.

 

  • Pet sunblocks often rely on a combination of beeswax and coconut oil to block damaging sun rays. This provides a dual benefit to animals, as beeswax forms a protective waterproof barrier on the skin against environmental allergens like pollen and weeds.

 

  • For added skin protection for your pup, try adding a dog-safe blend of cedar oil to ward off ticks, mosquitos, and other insects that can cause illness or sensitivity reactions.

 

  • Use an unscented pet-friendly sunblock with an SPF of at least 30. Watch your pet for 10 to 15 minutes after applying sunblock to make sure it gets absorbed rather than licked off!

 

  • Keep hairless pets such as cats and guinea pigs indoors when possible. Limit outdoor time for hairless or single-coated dogs to under 15 minutes per outing.

 

  • Use protective clothing made with SPF fabric, like sun hats and jackets, on your pet as a chemical-free option – but don’t forget to use sunblock on the nose!

 

  • Pay special attention to pets who have light-colored noses and eyelids and white ears. These areas are at the greatest risk of sunburn and skin changes. Goggles that offer UV protection are a perfect option for those with lightly-pigmented eyelids.

 

  • Keeping skin hydrated reduces the likelihood of skin tearing, improves burn injury recovery, and can reduce instances of a patchy fur coat.

 

 

Disclaimer: These services are designed for educational purposes only and are not intended to serve as medical advice. The information provided on this site and in reports should not be used for diagnosing or treating any health problem or disease.  It is not a substitute for professional care.  If you have or suspect you may have a health problem or need medical attention, you should consult your healthcare provider. PetMedella is not responsible for the interpretation of results by any outside affiliates, practitioners or health coaches using this test.