SUMMER VIBES

Do protect your pets against the harmful rays of the sun, writes DR ADRI

ROSSOUW

of True Vets.

We are all aware of the lack of ozone protection in New Zealand and hence the importance of ample sunscreen protection. But it’s just as important to protect your pets against the harmful rays of the sun!

Not all cats and dogs are equally susceptible to sunburn since those with dense coats and darker coat colors have their own, natural protective layer. However, those with light coats and especially those with white coats tend to have more sensitive skin. Any exposed skin with thin or no hair coverage needs to be protected with a good quality sunscreen as not only can these pets get sunburnt, but it can also increase their risk for developing skin cancer!

There is often a direct correlation between the lack of skin pigmentation and the dog’s enthusiasm for suntanning! A lot of dog breeds with ‘pink tummies’ love laying on their backs while basking in the sun and although we do not often take our cats to the beach to sunbathe, they do love sitting in a sunny windowsill. A window unfortunately provides scant protection for those pink nose and ear tips.

Excessive UV exposure in pets with sensitive skin causes their skin to become red, scaly and itchy, a condition called solar dermatitis. Recurrent episodes of solar dermatitis can increase their chance of developing more serious skin conditions, including cancers. There are numerous good quality sunscreens to choose from. It is best to stick with a pet specific sunscreen as these have been developed specifically for our furry friends and are unlikely to cause adverse skin reactions. Daily application on the exposed skin area is recommended.