How to Recognize and Treat Sunburn in Dogs

Those pretty pink noses and ear tips can be susceptible to sunburn, especially if your pet likes to nap in sunny spots. Their coats provide some protection from the sun, but exposed tummys where the hair is thinner are susceptible to damage by the sun's rays. The good news is there are many soothing natural products to help ease the discomfort if your pet gets sunburned.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Aloe vera juice
• Vitamin E
• Moisturizer
• Witch hazel

Symptoms That Your Pet Is Sunburned

1. The nose, ears or tummy are red and tender.

2. The edges of your pet's ears are dry, cracked or curling.

3. They constantly scratch themselves in tender places and whimper when doing so.

Ways To Soothe A Sunburned Dog Or Cat

1. Use aloe vera, nature's ointment. The juice from the aloe vera plant will help reduce infection and scarring and speed the healing process. If you have a plant available, break off the tip of a leaf and squeeze out some gel. Apply it directly to the affected area. If a fresh plant is unavailable, a cream with aloe vera works well.

2. Speed healing with vitamin E. Puncture a Vitamin E capsule and squeeze out the oil, applying to the affected area to reduce scarring and speed healing.

3. Replace lost moisture on the skin. Applying a moisturizer can restore the moisture balance to the skin. Those products which contain coconut or jojoba oil are best. Apply three times per day.

4. Use witch hazel, it has a cooling property as it evaporates from the skin but doesn't sting. Apply with a cotton ball three to four times per day.

Tips & Warnings

• The lighter the animal in color, the more susceptible they will be to the sun's burning rays.

• Some conditions look like sunburn but are not. If in doubt, take the pet to the vet to make sure it isn't lupus or cancer, just two of the possibilities.