Sunscreen and Bug Spray for Pets

We are now deep into summer and we hope that you and your pets have been enjoying the great outdoors. If you have been outside much, though, you know how much of a damper the sun and bugs can put on your good time. Our four-legged family members are no different in this regard. Learn what you need to know about sunscreen and bug spray for your pets this summer season.

Sun Dangers for Pets

The sunshine holds lots of fun for people and pets alike, but we must always remember that its rays can be dangerous. Pets can suffer from sunburn and skin cancer just like us.  Those who are at highest risk of sunburn include:

• Light colored pets
• Pets with a short hair coat
• Pets who have been shaved
• Pets with hair loss

In particular, the ear tips, nose, skin around the lips, and underbelly are the most common areas where we see sun-related problems in pets. Our animal friends are safest when we enjoy the outdoors in morning or late afternoon when the sun is not as intense. Always be sure to provide plenty of shade as well.

Bugs and Pets Don’t Mix

Mosquitos, ticks, and the like can be annoying and are sure to ruin a fun time if they are present in abundance.

Besides being pesky, bugs outdoors can cause itchy or painful bites and some may carry disease. Mosquitoes, for instance, are known for carrying heartworm disease which can be deadly to pets.

Avoiding the outdoors at dusk, eliminating standing water, and using mosquito screening can be helpful. Also, don’t forget to talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s heartworm, flea and tick treatments.

Using Sunscreen and Bug Spray for Pets

We can also battle these outdoor nuisances using sunscreen and bug spray for our pets. It is important to take a few things into account, however, as pets are not people.

• Sunscreen for Pets – Be cautious when selecting a sunscreen to use on your pets. People generally don’t ingest sunscreen, so we can be a little more lenient on ingredients for sunscreens intended for us. Choose a pet-specific sunscreen or a human sunscreen for sensitive skin that does not have a warning against ingestion on the label. Be sure that it is PABA and zinc-oxide free as well. Apply to areas of concern frequently.
• Bug spray for Pets – Again, the biggest concern with using bug spray for people on pets is that it is much more likely to be ingested. It is safest to use topical spot-on products designed for your type of pet to deter biting flies, mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. Avoid using human products, especially those containing DEET. If using a pet-specific bug spray, read the directions thoroughly and only use on the species the product is designed for.

We hope that you and your pets have a bug-free, sunburn-free summer. If you have any questions about how to best protect your pet during this time of year, talk to your veterinarian. The staff at Oakland Veterinary Referral Services wish you a pet-safe summer!