Do Dogs Need Sunscreen?

When it comes to protecting myself from the sun, I apply a moisturiser with SPF to protect my face. I’m currently using Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen as it gives my skin great coverage throughout the day and doesn’t make my skin oily.

But what about my dog, Harper?
The first time I noticed Harper sunburnt was when we spent a few hours at the beach. It was a very sunny day and I honestly didn’t even think of applying sunscreen to her lightly coloured nose, chest and ears. She’s a dog, dogs don’t get sunburnt, right? Wrong!

When we returned home from the beach, I noticed Harper’s nose and ears had become very red and sunburnt, she would not stop scratching at them which caused her even more pain. I consulted my Vet who informed me the best sunscreen for dogs is either a dog sunscreen, or if that is not available, a sports sunscreen as it does not contain Zinc; which can be fatal to dogs. I used Sun Sense Sport SPF50+ and continue to use it on Harper when we are out in the sun for long periods of time.

How to stop the burn:
I recommend Aloe Vera Gel to help soothe her sunburn and take away the sting. I applied it every few hours or when I saw she was uncomfortable.

– Choose a dog friendly sunscreen that does NOT contain Zinc Oxide as this can be fatal for dogs.
– Test the sunscreen in a small area on your dog.
– Use protective clothing if you feel it is needed.
– Supply shade.
– Supply fresh, accessible water.

– Don’t shave your long-haired dog as this coat protects them from UV rays. Instead, trim your dogs coat or brush the coat to rid any matted or dead hair.
– Don’t cover your dog’s whole coat in sunscreen. Only on the lightly skinned areas.
– Only apply sunscreen when it is needed- long exposure to the sun, eg. sun baking.