Rays, Cats and Dogs: Protect your Pets from the Sun
The dangers of too much sun exposure are well known. The harmful effects of UV rays have long been associated with skin cancer and a number of other ailments, leading to the widespread belief that the best way to stay healthy is to avoid too much direct exposure to the sun, particularly when the sun is at its fiercest around midday.
The next best thing, however, is to make sure high-factor sun cream is applied to any bare patch of skin and UV protective sunglasses are worn.
Of course, little persuasion should be needed as to the prudence of taking care in the sun. It may surprise some to learn that animals too can be just as susceptible to the sun’s rays, and family pets that spend a lot of time outdoors can be at a far greater risk of developing skin cancer than those confined to an indoor environment.
For example, dogs with short white coats and light coloured skin such as Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, Whippets and Greyhounds are most at risk from developing sun-induced disorders later in life.
Among the preventative measures that can be taken include preventing a pet’s sun exposure altogether, using solar-protective t-shirts and, perhaps surprisingly, applying sun cream.
The type of sun-block that is recommended for children may also be suitable for animals, given that they are often waterproof, scentless and will be less likely to cause irritation to the skin. But there is now even sunscreen specifically designed for pets, offering an easy spray application process and a non-greasy layer of protection.
No cat or dog likes to be stuck indoors - especially in the warm summer months – so it probably is wise to adopt preventative measures to minimise the chances of it suffering from sun-related ailments. However, as with anything in life, nothing can offer a 100% protection guarantee.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in dogs, and the second most common type of cancer in cats. But if it’s detected early enough then treatment is a genuine option, though it’s likely to incur considerable fees from the vet – which is why it’s important to have adequate pet insurance in place.
And as is the case when shopping for anything in the internet age, it’s best requesting several pet insurance quotes, as prices can vary significantly between providers – plus there are often significant discounts available when purchasing a pet insurance policy online.
So, even our furry little friends are at risk from the elements. By taking the appropriate preventative measures it's possible to ensure that our beloved pets live long and healthy lives.
The next best thing, however, is to make sure high-factor sun cream is applied to any bare patch of skin and UV protective sunglasses are worn.
Of course, little persuasion should be needed as to the prudence of taking care in the sun. It may surprise some to learn that animals too can be just as susceptible to the sun’s rays, and family pets that spend a lot of time outdoors can be at a far greater risk of developing skin cancer than those confined to an indoor environment.
For example, dogs with short white coats and light coloured skin such as Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, Whippets and Greyhounds are most at risk from developing sun-induced disorders later in life.
Among the preventative measures that can be taken include preventing a pet’s sun exposure altogether, using solar-protective t-shirts and, perhaps surprisingly, applying sun cream.
The type of sun-block that is recommended for children may also be suitable for animals, given that they are often waterproof, scentless and will be less likely to cause irritation to the skin. But there is now even sunscreen specifically designed for pets, offering an easy spray application process and a non-greasy layer of protection.
No cat or dog likes to be stuck indoors - especially in the warm summer months – so it probably is wise to adopt preventative measures to minimise the chances of it suffering from sun-related ailments. However, as with anything in life, nothing can offer a 100% protection guarantee.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in dogs, and the second most common type of cancer in cats. But if it’s detected early enough then treatment is a genuine option, though it’s likely to incur considerable fees from the vet – which is why it’s important to have adequate pet insurance in place.
And as is the case when shopping for anything in the internet age, it’s best requesting several pet insurance quotes, as prices can vary significantly between providers – plus there are often significant discounts available when purchasing a pet insurance policy online.
So, even our furry little friends are at risk from the elements. By taking the appropriate preventative measures it's possible to ensure that our beloved pets live long and healthy lives.
