Pets: Shedding light on sun dangers

Exposure to intense sunlight can burn an animal's skin and, in extreme cases or after long-term exposure, it can lead to malignant skin cancer.

Veterinary charity PDSA is urging pet owners to use pet sun block, which is specially formulated for our four-legged friends whenever they're out in the sunshine.

Senior veterinary surgeon Sean Wensley says: "Pets are particularly sensitive to sunlight in areas where fur is thin or absent, such as the ears and nose, or if they have white skin or fur.

"Applying pet sun block helps to protect these vulnerable areas so pets can enjoy the sun without it causing any long-term damage."

Cats and dogs can suffer from solar dermatitis, a skin disease caused by ultraviolet radiation which affects the nose, body and limbs.

It is most commonly seen in dogs with thin coats or light skin pigmentation, such as dalmatians, English bull terriers and white boxers.

The condition also affects cats with white fur or damaged skin.

Dogs tend to develop problems on their nose due to the light pigmentation and sparse hair. The first signs are redness and scaling, which leads to ulcers.

Symptoms should always be checked by a vet because they can develop into cancer.

In cats, the tips of the ears are at the greatest risk, but the eyelids, nose and lips can also be affected. Initial signs of solar dermatitis include redness and hair loss, with lesions that worsen over time.

Mr Wensley adds: "As well as using pet sun block, owners can help prevent their pet getting burnt by keeping them out of the strongest sun, between 10am and 5pm. They should also ensure they have access to shaded areas and fresh water while outside.

"Walking dogs early in the morning or late evening when it is cooler is also advised."

In severe cases, cats may need to have the tips of their ears removed, especially if there is a possibility of cancer.

If your pet does get burnt by the sun, contact your vet for advice. For more information, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/summerhealth