07/03/2025
Sun Protection for Pink Noses! ☀️🐴
Does your horse have a pink nose? If so, you know how susceptible they can be to sunburn, especially with these sunny summer days! Just like us, horses with unpigmented skin are at risk of painful burns and even long-term skin damage if not protected.
Why Pink Noses Need Extra Care:
Horses with pink skin on their muzzles (often found in paints, pintos, cremellos, palominos, and other breeds with white markings) lack the melanin that provides natural sun protection. This makes them highly vulnerable to harmful UV rays.
💡Tips to Protect Your Horse's Sensitive Muzzle:
✔ Apply Sunscreen: Yes, horses can wear sunscreen! Use a zinc oxide-based cream or a veterinary-specific product designed for horses. Apply generously to the pink areas daily, especially before turnout.
✔Provide Shade: Ensure your horse has access to ample shade during peak sunlight hours (typically 10 AM to 4 PM). Run-in sheds, natural tree cover, or even a stall can offer much-needed relief.
✔Fly Masks with Nose Flaps: Many fly masks come with extended nose flaps that offer excellent physical protection from the sun. This is a great hands-free option!
✔Limit Turnout: If possible, consider turning out horses with sensitive noses during the evening or overnight hours when the sun's intensity is lower.
Sunburns aren't just uncomfortable; they can lead to more serious issues like photosensitivity and an increased risk of skin cancer. Let's keep those precious pink noses healthy and happy this summer!🐴
