Sun safety for dogs too

Sunlight can worsen skin diseases

Discoid lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that makes dogs allergic to their own tissues. The disease causes crusting, depigmentation, redness and ulceration of the nose. Lesions may appear around the eyes, ears, limbs and other areas. SLE can occur at any age, and is more common in certain breeds, such as the Collie, German Shepherd, Shetland and Siberian Husky.

Fortunately, the prognosis is generally good, although treatment is usually lifelong. SLE may improve or worsen, so that treatment sometimes becomes unnecessary. In some chronic cases, SLE can degenerate into a cancer called squamous cell carcinoma, but this is rare.

Exposure to ultraviolet rays (such as sunlight) can worsen or even accelerate the progression of the disease. This is why it seems to be more severe in summer or in sunny climates. Depigmentation of the nose also makes the dog more vulnerable to sunburn.

SLE is treated in two stages. First, a precise diagnosis must be made, since depigmentation and ulceration of the nose can have several causes. The veterinarian performs blood tests and skin biopsies. Since the nose is a highly sensitive and vascularized area, biopsy usually involves general anesthesia.

Once a diagnosis of SLE has been made, treatment consists of avoiding intense sunlight, administering topical and systemic medications and, in extreme cases, surgical correction. Applying sunscreen to depigmented areas can be effective. Keeping the dog indoors during the day (between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.) and allowing extended outings in the evening can help alleviate symptoms.

Topical creams and ointments containing vitamin E or steroids can also be effective. Oral vitamin E (approx. 400-800 I.U. twice a day) also gives good results. Severe cases respond well to corticosteroids.

Finally, there are recent reports of successful surgical reconstruction of the nose area. Skin in depigmented and ulcerated areas is excised and replaced (using grafts) with normal skin. Your veterinarian can advise you on the most effective treatments.