Why do our pets love sunbathing? There is a very interesting scientific explanation; during a tanning session due to exposure to ultraviolet radiation in the body of a dog, vitamin D is produced.This vitamin helps prevent the development of rickets and is especially needed for puppies and young dogs.
The reason why do dogs lay in the sun so much
The reason why dogs love to lie in the sun is only in this way oily cholesterol on the skin of animals is converted into vitamin D3. This substance enters the body of animals when they lick their dense wool, and is not absorbed through the skin, as in humans.
Do dogs sunbathe
Most dogs love to lay in the sun, and settle into a relaxed, comfortable position. Where sunbathing has its share of benefits, in excess animals can get sunburned.
At risk are animals with a single-layer or sparse coat, individuals with light or white hair, representatives of bald breeds, and animals suffering from allergies.
The most sun-sensitive areas of the body are the ears, belly, nose and paws, especially those with pale pink pigmentation. Ultraviolet light often leads to dermatitis.
Sunburns can be very painful, accompanied by redness, peeling of the skin, itching. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation can provoke the development of cancer.
We should also mention the “sunshine vitamin”. Under the influence of the sun, a secret is released that helps skin oils to be converted into vitamin D.
Does tan stay on dog skin?
In pets with short or sparse hair, in representatives of bald breeds, when exposed to sunlight, a tan remains on the skin. For example, the Chinese-crested by the middle of summer it gets dark if you walk it without clothes. With the onset of cool days and the approach of winter, the tan disappears.
What if the dog likes to lie in the sun?
If your pet likes to spend time sunbathing, it is important to keep an eye on the animal and avoid long hours of exposure to the sun. It is better to walk in shady places and choose shaded places to rest.
To prevent burns, apply waterproof sunscreen to the tips of the ears, nose, and skin around the mouth.
In the area of the abdomen and groin, the skin is sensitive to the sun therefore, you should not allow the animal to lie in the sun for a long time with its stomach up.
In order to protect bald or short-haired animals from the harmful effects of the sun, you can walk them in light clothing.
Bottom Line
If your dog likes to lie in the sun and your layout of the house allows, you should arrange for the animal a comfortable place in the room, into which a lot of light penetrates. The harm from sunbathing through glass is less, but ultraviolet rays, which increase the risk of skin cancer, penetrate through glass, so the time spent in the sun, even indoors, should be limited.
