Sun Safety: Protecting Your Dog from Harmful UV Rays
The sun shines powerfully during summertime. Unfortunately, too much of it can make your dog sick. This is because dogs are prone to sunburn and skin damage from too much sun exposure.
Sun safety involves providing your dog with shaded areas when you go on outdoor adventures and limiting outdoor adventures during peak sun hours. There are even some dog-friendly sunscreens to bring along on your adventures!
3 Dog Sun Safety Tips
1. Choose a Non-Toxic Sunscreen
If you’re going to the beach or any area for a prolonged period of time where the sun peaks, it’s best you take the same precautions from UV rays with your dogs. Select a sunscreen for your dog that is safe and free from chemicals like zinc oxide, octinoxate, and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA).
Search instead for natural sunscreens with aloe vera and coconut oil. Make sure it’s water-resistant, unscented, and has an SPF of at least thirty. Be sure to apply the sunscreen on the nose, ear tips, and any other sensitive or exposed areas.
2. An Alternative to Sunscreen is Protective Clothing
A cooling vest is a good alternative to sunscreen when you go on outdoor adventures with your dog during the summer. Its light fabric won’t weigh your dog down or make them uncomfortable. You can even try a dog sun hat!
3. Shade is Your Best Friend
Heat strokes are unfortunately very common in all dogs. Prolonged heat exposure makes dogs susceptible to heating up. Early signs of heatstroke include excessive drooling, heavy panting, rapid breathing, bright red gums and tongue, hot skin, and a high heart rate.
Remember, during outdoor adventures, it’s vital to provide plenty of shade for your dog along with fresh, cool drinking water. One tip is to bring along a portable pop-up tent that can work as a shelter if there is no shade.
Safety in the Sun: Limit Hot Surfaces and Sun Exposure for Dogs
Another thing you may not have anticipated is hot surfaces that may put your dog at risk of being burned. The pads of your dog’s paws are sensitive and may be walking on hot pavement, which can lead to injury. Take preventative measures by touching the ground yourself to assess its heat.
Follow the 5-second rule for hot weather to learn how to assess the pavement’s heat. If you have to question whether it’s too hot, chances are it is. To avoid possible burns and discomfort, going on walks during cooler parts of the day in the morning or at night is best. You can also try protective booties to shield their paws from hot surfaces.
Get Joy Is Here to Help Your Dog Thrive
Our mission at Get Joy is to deliver the highest-quality dog food, science-backed Supplements, and nutritious dog Treats. Check out our products to learn more. We also offer 24/7 tele-vet services to help consult all your dog’s health and wellness needs!
