Sit Stay Forever organic dog sunscreen, named Best Organic by The Spruce Pets

Sit Stay Forever Named "Best Organic" in The Spruce Pets' Top Dog Sunscreens

We're proud to share that Sit Stay Forever's Organic Sunscreen was named the "Best Organic" pick in The Spruce Pets' roundup of the top dog sunscreens.

What made it stand out: an all-natural ingredient list, SPF-supporting oils, moisturizing benefits alongside sun protection, and a vegan, cruelty-free formula — free of zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and other ingredients commonly found in conventional sunscreens.

Our sunscreen draws its SPF-supporting properties from natural, fruit-based oils — including carrot seed oil, one of the higher-estimated-SPF natural ingredients used in the formula — along with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids that support skin repair.   All these ingredients are safe if your dog or cat licks after application.

We're honored to be recognized alongside other trusted names in pet sun care, and we remain committed to formulating safe, effective, organic products for dogs, cats, and horses.

Why "Organic" Is Its Own Category in Pet Sun Care

Most pet sunscreens fall into one of two categories: mineral-based (using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically block UV rays) or organic/plant-oil-based, which rely on natural oils with inherent SPF properties instead. Each has trade-offs — mineral formulas tend to offer more consistent, tested protection, while organic formulas prioritize being fully non-toxic if licked or ingested, which matters for pets that groom themselves.

Being recognized specifically in the "Best Organic" category means Sit Stay Forever's formula stood out among other plant-based, zinc-free options — not just pet sunscreens broadly.

Steve recently discussed this exact topic — why dogs and cats need dedicated sun protection — in a segment for WGME/CBS 13.

A Quick Refresher on Pet Sun Safety

Sunburn risk isn't limited to hairless breeds. Dogs and cats with short or thin coats, light-colored fur, pink skin, or areas of exposed skin from seasonal shedding are all more vulnerable to UV damage — especially on the nose, ear tips, and belly. Left unprotected, repeated sun exposure can lead to sunburn, skin irritation, and long-term skin damage.

For a full breakdown of what to look for in a dog sunscreen and how to apply it correctly, see our complete guide to the best dog sunscreen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a pet sunscreen "organic"? An organic pet sunscreen relies on natural, plant-based oils — like carrot seed oil, red raspberry seed oil, and coconut oil — for SPF properties, rather than synthetic chemical UV filters or minerals like zinc oxide.

Is organic sunscreen safe if my pet licks it? Yes — that's the core advantage of this category. Organic, oil-based formulas are generally formulated to be safe if ingested in small amounts, which matters since pets frequently groom themselves after application.

Does organic sunscreen work as well as mineral sunscreen? Organic formulas typically require more frequent reapplication than mineral-based sunscreens, since natural oils don't provide the same consistent, tested UV-blocking strength. They're often chosen specifically for safety and skin-nourishing benefits alongside sun protection.

We're honored to be recognized alongside other trusted names in pet sun care, and we remain committed to formulating safe, effective, organic products for dogs, cats, and horses.

Shop the Organic Sunscreen for Dogs & Cats →

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Steve Whitney

Steve Whitney is a biologist and the founder of Sit Stay Forever, where he develops organic, chemical-safe care products for dogs, cats, and horses, made in Maine since 2012.

Raised alongside companion animals and horses from birth, his background combines deep academic research with hands-on clinical and equestrian experience:

• Scientific Background: Earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Natural Resources, concentrating on biology and genetics.
• Veterinary Experience: Began his career as a veterinary assistant, was accepted to The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and has worked alongside veterinarians caring for small and large animals.
• Equine Experience: A lifetime of riding and training sport horses. Groomed 1980 Kentucky Derby winner Genuine Risk and served as a safety official and announcer at three-day eventing trials.

Steve Whitney is a biologist and lifelong animal caretaker whose training in genetics and hands-on veterinary and equine experience qualify him to formulate chemical-safe pet products.