We have all heard “slip, slop, slap and wrap” but it is important to also be aware that our pets have similar risks from the sun. October to March are the highest risk months. The risk of sunburn and skin cancer applies to all pets that spend any time in the sun. The risk is significantly greater to those pets that have areas of unpigmented (white or pink) skin or a short or thin coat. There are multiple pet sunscreens available.
It is best to limit your pet’s sun exposure. Encourage them into the house or to shady areas between 10am and 4pm in the high risk months. If you are unable to supervise them, provide access to shaded areas while you are out.
With summer comes warm days. Leaving your dog in the car (even with the windows partly down) is a risk. Dogs quickly suffer and die in hot cars. If you leave a dog in a hot car and it becomes heat stressed, you and the owner of the vehicle can be fined $300.
Dog paws are just as sensitive to burning hot surfaces as our bare feet. A simple test is to check the footpath with the back of your hand. Follow the seven-second rule and check the surface for heat before you leave the house. This also applies to sand at the beach. Even better is keep to natural grass surfaces. Ideally walk early in the morning or late in the evening when surfaces are cooler.
Words ― Dr Deborah Samson
