We’re always delighted when the Irish sun decides to make an appearance. Gardens fill up, beaches get busy, and our pets are never far from the action. But while most of us reach for the sunscreen, we often forget that some of our furry friends may need protection too.

Many owners are surprised when I tell them that pets can get sunburn.

Dogs with white or thin coats are particularly at risk. The nose, ear tips and even the tummy can burn after spending too much time sunbathing. And let’s be honest, some dogs would happily lie in the sunshine all day if we let them!

Cats can also suffer from sun damage, especially those with white ears and pink noses. In fact, repeated exposure to sunlight can lead to a type of skin cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), one of the most common skin cancers we see in cats.

The tricky part is that it often starts with what looks like a harmless little scab. Owners may think their cat picked up a scratch while climbing a fence or chasing a bird. But if a sore on the ears or nose doesn’t heal, it’s worth getting it checked.

Fortunately, prevention is quite simple. Providing shade, limiting sun exposure during the brightest part of the day, and using pet-safe sunscreen in high-risk animals can make a huge difference. And before you raid your own sunscreen bottle, remember that human products aren’t always safe for pets.

We spend a lot of time talking about vaccines, flea treatments and healthy diets, but sometimes a little sun protection is just as important. Your vet can advise whether your pet would benefit from one and recommend a suitable product.

So while you’re enjoying the sunshine this summer, spare a thought for your four-legged family members too. They’ll thank you for it, probably by finding the sunniest spot in the house and ignoring your advice completely! “