Sunshine & Safety
Can your small dog get sunburned? Of course! Fur may not cover a dog’s body entirely evenly, so any areas with sparse fur are vulnerable to those harsh rays. (Contrary to popular belief, giving your pooch a very short haircut in the summer isn’t always the best idea, as fur provides sun-protective coverage.) Additionally, noses and ears are particularly at risk for overexposure. Dogs with lighter-colored noses and pink skin, such as the Maltese, Westie, Bichon and white Poodle for example, are even more sun-sensitive.
A lightweight T-shirt can block the strong sunlight and help avoid burning for any breed. Some clothing is made with fabric that also has a sun protection factor! And don’t worry about the shirt making your little dog too warm; blocking out those rays will actually keep your dog cooler and more comfortable than if the sun were directly hitting their sensitive skin.
Eye and face protection is also helpful to your pooch. To protect their delicate eyes and sensitive noses, a visor can do just the trick! Just be sure the sizing is right and that it’s put on properly so that it stays put. Doggie goggles are another way to go to keep those precious peepers safe in the sun.
Should you ever suspect sunburn, ease the discomfort by holding your little one in a cool, wet (never ice cold) towel for a few minutes. You can also massage pure aloe vera gel to the affected areas several times a day. As always, be sure your dog has clean, cool water to drink at all times.
Please keep in mind that dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke than humans, so keep the duration out in the sun (especially during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) very limited and avoid overexertion. Be aware of your pooch’s paws as hot pavement can turn a fun walk into an "ouchy" experience. Longer strolls during the earlier morning hours as well as once the sun is beginning to set are ideal for the safest summertime activity.
-S. Athanasiou