Beach safety for dogs: keeping your canines safe this summer
Summer is the perfect time to get out of the house and venture on over to the beach.
But whether you are enjoying the sunny weather lakeside or staring out at the vast ocean, it is important to remember that any beach day may bring with it some hidden dangers — especially if you bring your pup along with you.
Most people show up to the beach prepared — bringing sunscreen, umbrellas, and even the occasional bug spray. However, being prepared also involves looking out for the well-being of our dogs, who don't always know about the potential safety hazards at the beach.
Scroll through below for 10 exclusive and important tips that are sure to keep your canine safe and happy during your next beach trip.
While some of them may seem like common sense (like keeping them hydrated), others took me completely by surprise. I had no idea that packing a little bit of vinegar in my bag could come in handy if my dog has a painful encounter with a jellyfish!
I can't wait to spend a couple of summer days at the beach with family, friends, and my pup. But rest assured, after reading this, I will definitely make sure I'm 100 percent prepared!
And, of course, remember to always pay attention to rules for dogs posted on the beach, and keep your pet on a leash unless otherwise indicated.
What other hidden dangers do you keep an eye out for when you take your dog to the beach? Let us know in the comments.
Tip #1: Avoid Choppy Water
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
When it comes to water safety, canines don't always know what their limitations are.
It's important to avoid any water that looks choppy, as your pup may not be able to stay afloat.
But even if the water looks OK to you, you can always fit them with a doggy life vest just to be on the safe side!
Tip #2: Pack Some Vinegar
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
Did you know that a little bit of vinegar is a great way to battle a painful sting should your pup be so unlucky?
According to Pet Hub, "Dogs can easily fall victim to sea lice, or worse, jellyfish.
"If your dog should suffer a sting, douse the affected area in vinegar to ease the pain and kill off the stinging barbs before trying to remove the tentacles."
Tip #3: Protect The Paws
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
For our dogs, a beach can be a virtual minefield of potential pain producers, from shells and glass, to sand that is hot enough to burn their paws.
Pet Hub suggests bringing some kind of paw protection along with you to the beach, such as little protective booties.
They might seem like a funny thing for your dog to wear, but he or she will thank you when these protectors save them from a painful cut or burn!
Tip #4: Spray On The Sunscreen
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
While you probably have sunscreen for yourself in the beach bag, did you also remember to pack sunscreen for your pup?
Many companies sell inexpensive sunscreen that can be sprayed or lathered on your pet, and are specifically designed to give them protection from the powerful sun!
Tip #5: Give Exercise A Rest
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
A wide-open beach might seem like the perfect place to toss a ball or throw a frisbee.
But too much strenuous activity in the hot summer sun can have detrimental effects on your dog's health — such as dehydration or heatstroke.
You may be better off using the hot day as a chance to relax with your pup, saving the exercise for a different time.
Tip #6: Keep The Fresh Water Flowing
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate — but with fresh water only!
It might seem like there is plenty of water present at the beach, but it is very important that you do notlet your pup drink too much salt water.
According to Vet Street, drinking salt water can cause vomiting or dehydration, and drinking lake water can lead to illness or even liver problems.
Tip #7: Seek Out The Shade
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
Just because you might enjoy spending the entire day in the sun, doesn't mean your dog will be able to stand the heat.
Make sure that there is plenty of shade available for you and your pet.
This can help to avoid things like dehydration, sunburn, or even heatstroke!
Tip #8: Give Them A Rinse
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
The beach and the water can be chock-full of germs and bacteria that may put your dog at risk of illness or infection.
A simple fix for this is to rinse your canine off before you head home from your day of fun in the sun!
Tip #9: Check With The Lifeguard
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
One of the easiest ways to keep your dog safe is by checking with the lifeguard about the daily sun and water conditions.
The lifeguard will be able to tell you if the water's waves are particularly strong, or if there is a high presence of jellyfish or sea lice.
Tip #10: Always Keep An Eye
Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
Perhaps the most important tip of all is to keep an eye on your dog.
With so many hidden dangers and plenty of beachgoers who you don't know, it is best to watch your pup's activities at all times.
This way, you can prevent an accident from happening, or address any problem that arises right away.
And, of course, you should always pay attention to any pet rules posted at the beach, and keep your dog on his or her leash wherever leashes are required!
Do you have any other tips for pet owners bringing their dogs to the beach this summer? Let us know in the comments.
Please SHARE this extremely important pet safety information with the canine lovers in your life!
Watch the videos below for more on beach safety!
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