June 8, 2008 - Just like people, dogs are in danger of getting skin cancer when being exposed to the rays from the sun.  Dogs are just as easily able to get sunburns as people.  Most of the time, sunburns are identified on bare areas of dogs.  When a dog has a sunburn, they undergo the same painful experience that people do.  Repetitive or prolonged sun exposure can increase the risk on skin cancer for dogs.

According to Pet Product News International, certain breeds are at higher risk for developing skin cancer when having frequent sun exposure such as: Scottish terriers, bull mastiffs, Basset hounds, Weimaraners, Kerry blue terriers, Chinese cresteds, white poodles and Norwegian elkhounds.  Factors that play a role in certain breeds being more prone than others are: skin color, coat type and hair pattern.

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Dogs that have lighter or paler skin have less pigment to protect them from the sun's rays.  Also, dogs that have a thinner coat are more likely to be at risk, because the sun's rays are able to still reach the dog's skin.  "Any bald patches or areas of scant hair show increase risks for cancerous tumors. The muzzle, ears and belly areas of a dog’s body are at higher risk."

There are ways to protect your dog from the sun such as buying:

• UV protective clothing: T-shirts and body suits
• Custom-fitted sunglasses
• Leave-in conditioning sprays with SPF
• Pet-safe lotions for exposed bare patches

If your dog already has a sunburn, the Pet Product News International recommends that you should to the following to help soothe the pain:

• Get your pet out of the sun as soon as possible
• Hose down your dog with cool water or place a cool, damp compress on the affected area
• Mix two parts water to one part witch hazel and gently apply to the coat
• Baking soda in a cool bath helps take out the sting
• Aloe Vera spray gel on sensitive, exposed areas helps soothe irritation

Source: "Skin Cancer Prevention Products ", Pet Product News International