How I Designed and printed a Custom Nose Guard to Help My Dog with DLE | SnoutCover

Our StoryPricingFAQResourcesContactOrder NowOur StoryPricingFAQResourcesContactOrder NowBillie's Story: How Love and Innovation Created SnoutCoverWhen our pitbull Billie was diagnosed with Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), we had no idea how much our lives, and hers were about to change. This is the story of how desperation, love, and a 3D printer led to the creation of SnoutCover.The Beginning: When Everything ChangedBillie's nose started changing gradually. At first, we thought it was just normal aging—her beautiful black nose began losing pigment, turning pink in patches. But then came the crusting, the scaling, and worst of all, the pain.Every time she bumped her nose, even slightly, she would yelp. The skin became so fragile that minor contact would cause bleeding. The once-smooth "cobblestone" texture of her nose disappeared, replaced by raw, damaged tissue that seemed to get worse with each passing day.The Sun Made Everything WorseOur vet confirmed what we feared: Discoid Lupus Erythematosus. The autoimmune disease was causing Billie's immune system to attack the healthy cells on her nose. Sunlight made it exponentially worse—UV rays triggered flare-ups that left her in visible discomfort.The treatment plan seemed simple enough: apply medicated ointment, use sunscreen, and keep her out of direct sunlight. But anyone who's tried to keep medication on a dog's nose knows the immediate problem—they lick it off within seconds.The Frustrating Search for SolutionsWe tried everything available on the market:Sunscreen balms – Licked off immediatelyFabric nose shields – She rubbed them off constantlyKeeping her indoors – Reduced her quality of life drasticallyReapplying medication constantly – Exhausting and ineffectiveNothing worked. We watched helplessly as Billie's condition worsened. The bleeding became more frequent. She became hesitant to play, clearly associating activity with the pain of bumping her sensitive nose.We needed something that would: protect her nose from UV rays, prevent her from licking off medication, stay securely in place, allow her to breathe, eat, and drink normally, and actually be comfortable enough that she'd tolerate wearing it.That solution didn't exist. So we decided to create it.The Design Process: Iteration After IterationWith access to a 3D printer and a lot of determination, I began designing what would become SnoutCover. The challenge was creating something that seemed simple but was actually incredibly complex.The Learning CurveThe first five prototypes were solely for measurements and made from PLA. I never intended to use PLA for the final product, but it was the quickest way to test initial dimensions. Measuring Billie’s nose with a cold calliper was a challenge in itself—she squirmed every time.The Breakthrough: Version 6By iteration six, I switched to TPU for its flexibility and comfort, and this was the first usable model. While it fit well, it lacked ventilation, which made it moist and uncomfortable for Billie.After weeks of testing and redesign, we finally had something that worked—with:Flexible TPU constructionStrategic ventilation holesAdjustable strap systemMinimal coverage designSmooth print orientationIterations 7–10 focused on ventilation—adding holes to keep her nose moist while ensuring sunlight couldn’t penetrate and cause further damage. Balancing functionality and comfort was tricky, but each version improved on the last.By iteration 11, I had a design that worked. It protected her nose, allowed her to breathe, and stayed in place without causing discomfort. This version gave me the confidence to push further, leading to iteration 12—a more “armored” version for durability and obviously a tough looking dawg.The Transformation: Five Months That Changed EverythingAs her nose began to heal, I designed iteration 13, a shorter version with a smaller footprint, to give her more freedom while still providing protection. For the holidays, I even made her a bright pink version, giving her a fashionable edge.With SnoutCover protecting her nose and keeping medication in place, we finally saw progress:Month 1: The bleeding stopped.Month 2: The crusting began to reduce.Month 3: Pigment beginning to return.Month 4: Texture started improving.Month 5: Her nose was fully black again. She was pain-free.Why I am Sharing ThisWhen I posted about Billie's recovery on Reddit and MakerWorld, the response was overwhelming. I realized this wasn't just Billie's story—it was a problem affecting dogs everywhere.Billie TodayToday, Billie is thriving. Her nose remains healthy and black. She's back to playing fetch, going on long walks, and living her best pitbull life without pain or restriction.A Note to Other Dog ParentsIf your dog is suffering from DLE or any nose condition, I want you to know: there is hope. SnoutCover was born from love, frustration, and the refusal to accept that Billie's suffering was just "how it is."Billie's recovery gave birth to SnoutCover. We hope it can give your dog the same chance at healing she had.Sharing This with the CommunityI know there are other dogs and owners out there facing similar struggles. That’s why I’m sharing this design for free. While it’s not adjustable by design, it should fit medium-to-large dogs as is. If needed, measurements can be adjusted using the scaling feature in your slicer software, but some slots, like those for the straps, might deform in the process.This model is printed in TPU to ensure it’s soft, flexible, and comfortable for your dog. The front and side ventilation holes keep your dog’s nose moist while preventing overheating.This experience taught me not just about 3D printing and design, but about patience, empathy, and the lengths we’ll go for the ones we love. If you’re a dog owner dealing with DLE, I hope this story inspires you and gives you a tool to help your furry companion.You can find the design on Makerworld, named SnoutCover, make adjustments if needed, and let’s help our pups live their best lives. ❤️‹ Why a Modified Muzzle Isn't the Best DLE SolutionLiving with "Collie Nose": A Daily Management Guide ›A gentle, breathable nose guard for dogs with DLE.A gentle, breathable nose guard for dogs with DLE.Order SnoutCover$40 + shippingDownload STLDIY · Print it yourselfNavigationStoryPricingFAQResourcesContactExternalMakerWorldReddit PostTermsTerms of ServicePrivacy PolicyRefund/Return PolicyCookie SettingsSnoutCover is a privately developed aid and is not a medical device or veterinary advice. Always follow your veterinarian.By downloading, printing, assembling, purchasing, or using SnoutCover (including any 3D files, TPU parts, straps, or hardware), you accept full responsibility for fit, use, training, supervision, and monitoring of your dog. Stop use if you see irritation, stress, or breathing issues.3D-printed parts (including flexible TPU) can vary in safety and durability. No guarantee is made for performance or suitability for any specific dog. I am not liable for any injury, damage, or outcome related to use or misuse of the product or design files. Use is at your own risk.This site shares a personal, non‑medical solution that worked for our dog. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.© 2025 SnoutCover by Omri Hillel. All rights reserved.NavigationStoryPricingFAQResourcesContactExternalMakerWorldReddit PostTermsTerms of ServicePrivacy PolicyRefund/Return PolicyCookie SettingsSnoutCover is a privately developed aid and is not a medical device or veterinary advice. Always follow your veterinarian.By downloading, printing, assembling, purchasing, or using SnoutCover (including any 3D files, TPU parts, straps, or hardware), you accept full responsibility for fit, use, training, supervision, and monitoring of your dog. Stop use if you see irritation, stress, or breathing issues.3D-printed parts (including flexible TPU) can vary in safety and durability. No guarantee is made for performance or suitability for any specific dog. I am not liable for any injury, damage, or outcome related to use or misuse of the product or design files. Use is at your own risk.This site shares a personal, non‑medical solution that worked for our dog. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.© 2025 SnoutCover by Omri Hillel. All rights reserved.NavigationStoryPricingFAQResourcesContactExternalMakerWorldReddit PostTermsTerms of ServicePrivacy PolicyRefund/Return PolicyCookie SettingsSnoutCover is a privately developed aid and is not a medical device or veterinary advice. Always follow your veterinarian.By downloading, printing, assembling, purchasing, or using SnoutCover (including any 3D files, TPU parts, straps, or hardware), you accept full responsibility for fit, use, training, supervision, and monitoring of your dog. Stop use if you see irritation, stress, or breathing issues.3D-printed parts (including flexible TPU) can vary in safety and durability. No guarantee is made for performance or suitability for any specific dog. I am not liable for any injury, damage, or outcome related to use or misuse of the product or design files. Use is at your own risk.This site shares a personal, non‑medical solution that worked for our dog. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.© 2025 SnoutCover by Omri Hillel. All rights reserved.NavigationStoryPricingFAQResourcesContactExternalMakerWorldReddit PostTermsTerms of ServicePrivacy PolicyRefund/Return PolicyCookie SettingsSnoutCover is a privately developed aid and is not a medical device or veterinary advice. Always follow your veterinarian.By downloading, printing, assembling, purchasing, or using SnoutCover (including any 3D files, TPU parts, straps, or hardware), you accept full responsibility for fit, use, training, supervision, and monitoring of your dog. Stop use if you see irritation, stress, or breathing issues.3D-printed parts (including flexible TPU) can vary in safety and durability. No guarantee is made for performance or suitability for any specific dog. I am not liable for any injury, damage, or outcome related to use or misuse of the product or design files. Use is at your own risk.This site shares a personal, non‑medical solution that worked for our dog. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.© 2025 SnoutCover by Omri Hillel. All rights reserved.Our StoryPricingFAQResourcesContactOrder NowOur StoryPricingFAQResourcesContactOrder Now

SnoutCover, born from the challenging circumstances surrounding Billie, a pitbull diagnosed with Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), presents a compelling case study in applied 3D design and, more importantly, the lengths to which a concerned owner will go to improve their pet’s quality of life. The narrative meticulously details the iterative design process undertaken by Omri Hillel, beginning with the initial realization of Billie’s condition and escalating to the creation of a functional—albeit non-medical—solution. The core of the story revolves around the constraints imposed by DLE: the need for UV protection, prevention of medication licking, secure fit, and uninterrupted breathing, eating, and drinking. Hillel’s approach, leveraging a 3D printer and readily available materials like PLA and TPU, highlights a pragmatic, problem-solving methodology.

The initial prototypes, constructed from PLA, served primarily as measurement tools, demonstrating a deliberate and methodical approach to understanding Billie's unique anatomy. The shift to TPU in version six marked a significant breakthrough, offering the necessary flexibility and comfort for prolonged wear. The design incorporates strategic ventilation holes to mitigate moisture buildup and maintain airflow, recognizing the delicate balance required for the nose’s health. Notably, the design’s evolution reflects a clear understanding of the disease’s exacerbating factors – sunlight triggering inflammation – directly addressing this vulnerability through both material selection and physical design elements.

The timeline of Billie’s recovery—a five-month transformation documented through measurable improvements (stopping bleeding, reducing crusting, returning pigment, and improving texture)—provides tangible evidence of the SnoutCover’s effectiveness and highlights the importance of consistent monitoring and adaptation. The narrative shifts from a purely technical account of the design iterations to a more emotionally resonant one. Hillel’s decision to share the design freely, coupled with the overwhelming response from the online community, underscores the broader impact of Billie’s story. This wider engagement elevates the project beyond a simple technical solution, framing it as a community-driven effort to provide support and potentially a similar resolution for other dogs facing DLE.

However, the documentation also includes crucial disclaimers emphasizing that SnoutCover is a non-medical aid and not a substitute for veterinary care. These warnings regarding potential irritation, stress, or breathing issues, coupled with the legal disclaimers outlining Hillel’s limited liability, underscore the responsible approach to sharing a DIY solution. Furthermore, the explicit statement that the design is intended for medium-to-large dogs and the potential for deformation when adjusted via slicing software highlights the necessity of careful customization and vigilant monitoring. This cautious framing acknowledges the inherent risks associated with using a non-standardized product and reinforces the importance of prioritizing the animal's well-being. Ultimately, the story of SnoutCover is a testament to the power of innovation driven by concern, highlighting the intersection of personal experience, technological problem-solving, and a strong community focused on supporting vulnerable animals.