The best way to prevent pet sunburn is to avoid the sun during the brightest part of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The Providence Journal / John Freidah

The approach of summer will bring constant reminders about the danger of overexposure to the sun and the need for sunscreen. The dangers are real and we should all take appropriate measures to prevent skin damage and skin cancer.

But, did you know that the family pet is susceptible to many of the same diseases? Dogs, cats and even horses suffer from sunburn, solar dermatitis and skin cancer.

The skin of a sunburned animal is red and painful, just as in people. Hair loss may also be evident.

The most common sites for sunburn include: the bridge of the nose, eartips, skin around the lips, groin, abdomen and inner legs. Pets that have light-colored noses and skin, thin or missing hair, or have been shaved for surgery are at greater risk for solar-induced skin diseases.

Sunburn can progress to solar dermatitis which is characterized by redness, hair loss, crusting and ulceration of the skin. With continued sun exposure, skin cancer (such as squamous cell carcinoma) may occur.

The best way to prevent sunburn is to avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Keep the animal inside or have shaded areas in the yard.

Horses can be protected in a barn.

Sunscreens may help prevent sunburn in our pets. They are actually recommended by The American Animal Hospital Association. Because most human sunscreens can be toxic if ingested by a dog or a cat, it is best to use a pet-specific product.

Doggles, Nutri-vet and Epi-Pet all produce pet-specific sunscreens and can be found online. Be sure to inquire which product is right for your pet, as some products should not be used on cats.