Most of us understand the dangers of sunburn when it comes to humans. It’s not only painful, but it enhances the likelihood of developing certain conditions like skin cancer. However, many owners overlook the potential danger of overexposure to the sun for their dogs. Dogs can also suffer from sunburn in places such as their nose. They can suffer from sunburn in those areas where they have less hair covering their skin or where the hair is light enough that it lets harmful UV rays through.
The nose is one such area because it is in a prominent position and the coat tends to be thinner in this area than on the rest of the body. If your dog has thin or light hair around the nose area, you should consider applying sunscreen. Some non-fragrance children’s sunscreen can be safe for your dog, but we recommend buying sunscreen that is designed specifically for use on dogs.
Causes of Sunburned Noses
Sunburn is caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet light in the sun’s rays. Damage is caused by UVA and UVB rays, and even if the damage isn’t visible, it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist. Damage can be done beneath the skin to DNA, and this can lead to skin cancers like melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. This is true in dogs as well as in people.
All dogs can potentially suffer from sunburn, but it is most often seen in dogs with a light-colored coat or with thin or bald patches.
Signs
The nose, ears, belly, and the end of the tail are some of the most susceptible areas on your dog. A common sign includes visible redness in the area, similar to sunburn on a person. Your dog may flinch or withdraw when you touch the affected area because it will be sensitive to the touch as well.
The area could become dry and may start to flake, crack, or blister. These problems can, in turn, lead to infections and ulcers.
How to Avoid Sunburned Dog Noses
When it comes to sunburn and its lasting effects, prevention is better than a cure. To prevent your dog from getting sunburnt, consider the following steps:
Conclusion
Sunburn is a very real concern for dogs, especially in areas like the nose and tips of the ears where they have less hair to protect against UV rays. Fortunately, dog sun hats and dog sunscreen are also available and can provide the protection your dog needs. Alternatively, avoid peak sun times and provide your dog with a shelter that will protect them on the sunniest days of summer.
Featured Image Credit: PICNIC-Foto-Soest, Pixabay
