As Sun Awareness Week approaches, (May 8^th - 14^th), vets are trying to alert pet owners that it's not just humans who need to be wary of the sun's harmful rays.

Veterinary expert Megan Jerred at Animalfriends.co.uk, says that sun-related illnesses in pets are on the rise.

“We've seen a 20% increase in sun and heat-related conditions in dogs since 2014, including dehydration and skin cancer – which can cost owners an average of £528 in vet bills,” she explained.

According to the pet insurance company, melanoma and heat stroke are two of the most common and expensive seasonal summer conditions for pets – with claims for heat stroke treatment setting pet owners back up to £900 each summer and serious cases of skin cancer costing in excess of £2,000 to treat.

Leading UK veterinary charity PDSA have substantiated these claims; from summer 2014 to summer 2015, their pet hospitals treated 29 pets for skin cancer and 25 cases of sunburn – almost all of which were cats.

PDSA vet Rebecca Ashman said that most people who sought treatment for their pets were not even aware that animals can get cancer.

“It often comes as a surprise to owners as some assume that fur will protect them from the sun,” she said.

“Unfortunately, this isn't an effective barrier, and white-furred pets are at highest risk because their skin lacks natural pigmentation which helps to block out the harmful UV rays.”

Veterinary experts from both Animal Friends and PDSA also warn that areas with little fur, such as the tips of the ears, are at higher risk because of greater exposure to the light.

And with temperatures set to climb to 20 degrees by the middle of May, dog and cat owners are being advised to keep their animals indoors or in the shade.

“Keeping pets out of the sun as much as possible and ensuring they have constant access to shaded areas will help prevent skin cancer,” said Ms Ashman.

Pet owners are urged to seek immediate veterinary advice if they notice any changes to their pet's skin, in particular, the development of ulcers or sores.

Megan Jerred also recommends the use of sunscreen made especially for pets, which can be purchased online or in leading pet stores – and should be used on pets with short, fine fur or areas of exposed skin.

If owners are unable to find pet sunscreen, they can also use sunblock designed for human babies or children– provided it is fragrance-free and above SPF 15, and does not contain zinc oxide, which can be toxic to pets.

Top tips for keeping your animals safe in the sun are as follows:

–      Limit the amount of time pets spend in the sun, especially during the peak of the day.

–      Use special pet sun cream on light or thin fur, the nose, ears or other exposed patches.

–      Give them plenty of cool, clean water, refreshed regularly.

–      Clip long-haired pets to prevent them from overheating.

–      Never leave animals locked in cars, even for a few minutes.

–      Avoid walking dogs between 8am and 5pm to avoid the main heat of the day.

–      Consult a vet immediately if you notice ulcers, sores or sudden discolouration on your pet's skin.