Comparison of three canine nose guards for reduction of ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) solar radiation.

Background: Protection from solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is paramount for some dermatological conditions, yet there are no studies assessing UV nose guards for dogs.

Objectives: Compare the ability of three nasal guards to block solar UV radiation (UVR) from the canine nose, using two commercial products and one created by the authors.

Animals: Four fabric model dogs were used in this prospective controlled trial.

Materials And Methods: Each model had a UV dosimeter applied to the dorsal nose and anterior nasal planum. Three models had nose protectors applied: (1) a mesh hood (OutFox Field Guard, OutFox For Dogs); (2) a fabric nose shield (Nose Protector, Dog Nose Protectors); or (3) a basket muzzle with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) 50+ fabric developed by the authors. The control had no protective device applied. All the models were placed in direct sunlight and measurements taken over nine 2 h time periods. Total cumulative UVR was analysed for each location and type of guard or control.

Results: All guards provided statistically significant UV protection compared to control at all time points (p < 0.001). The basket muzzle with UPF 50+ guard was consistent in protecting the dorsal and anterior nose, blocking 94.2% and 94.3% UVR, respectively. The fabric nose protector blocked 99.2% UVR from the dorsal and 82.9% anterior. The mesh hood blocked 72.5% of UVR dorsal and 71.4% anterior.

Conclusions And Clinical Relevance: Two guards were superior in blocking UVR; however, the choice of UV guard in a clinical setting depends on an individual's disease location and tolerance of the device.