Healthy Dogs

Pigmentation Problems of the Nose in Dogs

Nasal Solar Dermatitis (Collie Nose) continued...

Nasal solar dermatitis must be distinguished from discoid lupus erythematosus, pemphigus foliaceus, and zinc responsive dermatosis. All three diseases produce a skin reaction similar to nasal solar dermatitis. A distinguishing feature of nasal solar dermatitis is that pigment was lacking before the disease developed. In the other three, the pigment disappears as the disease progresses. Note that once depigmentation occurs in dogs with these diseases, the damaging effects of sunlight add to the problem.

Treatment:Prevent further exposure by keeping your dog indoors as much as possible when the sunlight is the most intense-between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Letting the dog out on cloudy days does not address the problem, because ultraviolet rays penetrate clouds. Sunscreens are of some aid in protecting dogs who spend time outdoors. Use products containing an SPF greater than 15. Apply the sunscreen 30 to 60 minutes before exposure and again later in the day.

Treat an irritated nose with a skin preparation such as Cortaid that contains 0.5 to 1.0 percent hydrocortisone.