How to Apply Sunscreen to a Dog
Dogs can get sunburns, too! Dogs with thin fur and smooth noses or ears are at a high risk for sunburns when they are kept outside in a kennel or are participating in outdoor activities. To protect their skin from sunburn, apply pet safe sunscreen to your dog's skin.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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Instructions:
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1
Purchase sunscreen for your dog. Go to a large retail pet store and select a sunscreen product that is safe for dogs. Choose from a spray sunscreen product, or a salve. These are usually located in the pet medications aisle.
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2
Look over your dog head to toe. Take note of the areas on his body where you can see bare skin. Look to see if his tummy is bare. Check his ears to see if they have bare skin areas. See if the skin on his nose is exposed. Does he have thin fur around his neck?
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3
Prepare to apply the sunscreen to the exposed skin areas on your dog. Use a dry washcloth to apply sunscreen spray around the head of your dog. Spray the sunscreen product on the washcloth and gently wipe over your dog's exposed skin. Be careful to get the fronts and backs of the ears. Do not get any sunscreen in your dog's eyes.
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4
Apply salves, or creamy sunscreens, with a washcloth. Use salve sunscreen on the ears, nose and other areas of the head where skin is exposed.
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5
Apply spray sunscreen formulas to the majority of your dog's body. Spray the sunscreen directly on the tummy, legs and back of your dog if he has thin fur, or in areas where his skin is showing.
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6
Reapply sunscreen to your dog every 3 to 4 hours, or as directed on the sunscreen package. Active dogs that participate in water sports may need to have sunscreen applied more frequently.
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7
Wash your hands after applying the sunscreen to your dog. Take the bottle of sunscreen with you if you plan on being out for the day with your dog.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Dogs with light or dark skin are at risk for sunburn. Protect all exposed skin by applying sunscreen to your dog.
Discontinue the use of sunscreen on your dog if you notice any rashes or excessive itching. Immediately wash the sunscreen off of your dog and seek veterinary attention.
If your dog is pregnant, lactating, nursing or is under the age of 8 weeks, read the package of sunscreen carefully to make sure it is safe for your pet.
