With the best of the Tasmanian Summer here, dogs and people alike are keen to get outdoors for some fun in the sun. While dogs, like humans, need a certain amount of sunlight (vitamin D) to stay healthy and happy, too much sun exposure can pose just as many health risks, and can leave dogs sunburned and miserable.

Some dogs are more susceptible to getting burnt than others; in particular dogs with short hair, fair hair, dogs with shorter legs (because the suns rays can more easily reflect off ground surfaces and a dog’s belly fur is often finer), and of course dogs with no hair!

To prevent your pooch from getting poached this Summer, apply a sunscreen of at least SPF15+ to a dogs ears, nose, muzzle, feet, belly and any other naturally hair free body parts when exposed for extended periods during sunlight hours. Be sure to invest in a quality sunscreen especially formulated for canines and ask your vet or local animal shelter about skin protecting sun suits for your dog.

Where possible, aim to keep your dog out of the sun between 11am and 2pm, as this is the most dangerous time of the day for ultraviolet light damage.

Additionally, make sure your dog has access to plenty of cool water, adequate shade and a quiet place to rest for happy Summer days in the sun with your best friend!