Summertime is the perfect time to take your dog to the beach. Not only is it a fun and exciting experience for them, but it’s also a great way to get some exercise. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before taking your pup to the sand and surf. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 tips for making sure your dog has a safe and enjoyable trip to the beach.
1. Select a Pup-Friendly Beach
There are several factors that can make or break a trip to the beach with your dog. The first thing you need to do is identify which beaches allow dogs and which ones don’t. Many beaches have restrictions on which types of pets are allowed on their shores. If you live relatively close to the ocean, there may be more than one beach in your area that allows dogs. Keep in mind that some restrictions are based on size, so if your pet falls under any of these groups, he/she will most likely not be able to visit the beach without a permit:
- Dogs weighing more than 50 pounds
- Dogs who have not been spayed or neutered
- Aggressive breeds (Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans)
- Dogs who have not received their rabies vaccine
If you’re unsure if your dog can visit the beach or not, check with local authorities before heading out.
2. Be Patient and Prepared
This is a trip that may take some time for your dog to adjust to. You might have to bring them home early if they refuse to get in the water or are too scared. Also, being on sand can be tough on their paws so you’ll need to bring some bandages just in case.
3. Bring Water
Make sure your dog has plenty of water when going to the beach while also bringing some treats along just in case they try something new that’s good. This way, you can reward them with food even though you’re outside of your house where there aren’t many tasty snacks around.
4. Have Sunscreen Ready
You don’t want your pup getting sunburned while at the beach so make sure to bring a bottle of sunscreen along with you. However, do not apply the sunscreen yourself. Instead, have your pup step in a bucket of water and then apply the sunscreen to their fur. This will help protect them from getting burned while also preventing any bumps or rashes that can occur from accidentally applying it topically.
5. Bring a Leash
Even though this is an outdoor activity, you’ll still want to have your dog on a leash just in case they want to explore off-leash and run free in the ocean (even though we don’t recommend doing this). Make sure they’re unable to go wandering around and get lost by always having them attached to you – unless they know how to swim well.
6. Bring a Towel
If you plan to go in the ocean, make sure that your dog is clean before going into the water. You don’t want them playing around in the sand and getting dirty when they’re already wet from playing in the ocean. Also, if they decide not to get in the water with you, bring a towel along with you so you can dry them off while also giving them a quick rinse beforehand.
7. Watch for Wildlife
Make sure to watch out for wildlife while at the beach such as jellyfish and crabs. Not only do jellyfish stings hurt but they may lead to anaphylaxis if your pup is allergic. Crabs are fun to play with just remember that their claws can do some serious damage so be careful.
8. Bring Shade
While at the beach, you’ll want to make sure your pup is covered from the scorching sun with plenty of shade. You can either buy a tent for them or bring an umbrella with you. This way, they’ll enjoy their time at the beach while getting protection from harmful UV rays.
9. Be Aware of Surfing
If you are near water where people are surfing, make sure to keep your dog away from this area unless they are trained surfers who won’t mind being around other dogs who are catching waves. This way, you can ensure that everyone has safe fun without encountering any accidents.
10. Watch Out for Seaweed
Seaweed may look scary but it’s actually a great plant for dogs to eat. However, be mindful of where you step when at the beach. You don’t want to make your pup eat seaweed since this may upset their stomach and lead to digestive issues. Also, make sure they don’t try to eat the sand as well – not only is this bad for them but it can cause an intestinal blockage which is very dangerous if not treated immediately with surgery.
11. Keep Them Safe
Before going home from the beach, watch out for any cuts or scrapes that may have occurred from playing in the sand and waves. If they have any wounds on their paws from running around in the sand or getting cut by seashells then bandage up those cuts so they don’t get infected. Even though having your dog at the beach can be a blast, it’s important to keep them safe and healthy.
Final Thoughts
Going to the beach is a great time for you and your pup to enjoy the weather and have fun playing in the water. However, it’s always important to keep them safe so they don’t get too exhausted and sick from overheating or getting injured by wildlife. As long as you monitor their behavior and keep an eye on where they’re at all times, you can create memories that will last forever.
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
Q. Is it a terrible idea to bring your puppy to the beach?
Ans: No, not necessarily. If you have a relatively calm dog then it’s okay to bring them to the beach – just remember that they may get scared from all of the loud noises and commotion. However, always watch out for wildlife such as jellyfish! If your pup is calm while at the beach and doesn’t seem overwhelmed by all of the excitement going on around them, then there’s no harm in having fun at this special locale with them! Just make sure to implement some of these tips so everyone has a safe and enjoyable time together.
Q. Is the sand on the shore extremely hot for pups?
Ans: Yes, the sand on the shore can be very hot for your pup to walk on. Even though you may enjoy walking around barefoot in the sand, it’s important to protect your dogs’ paws from getting too burned or cut by seashells! If they get hurt while playing around in the sand then make sure to clean up any wounds and apply some bandages so they don’t get infected.
Q. What is the maximum amount of time a dog may spend on the beach?
Ans: This is a good question as it relates to keeping your pet healthy and safe. It’s best to keep track of how much time you spend at the beach with them so that they don’t get too exhausted or sick from all of the running around and playing in the water! If they aren’t very big on swimming and getting wet, then only let them play for 20 minutes tops at a time before letting them relax. Otherwise, you can always take them back home after having fun for about an hour so they can rest up and cool down until you want to go on another trip.
Q. Should I allow my dog to lay in the sun?
Ans: Dogs can handle the sun as long as you monitor them. If they start panting or acting dizzy then it’s best to get them out of the sun immediately and into a shady area where there is plenty of space for them to move around. Make sure to give your pup lots of water after going to the beach so they don’t become dehydrated from all of the fun! Also, make sure that they don’t stay on their back for too long because this could lead to some damage if they aren’t careful with how they position themselves.
Q. How do I protect my dog from jellyfish?
Ans: Jellyfish pose quite a problem when it comes to taking dogs on beaches. Many people think that sharks are dangerous but there is a much greater chance that your dog is going to get stung by jellyfish! First, make sure they aren’t staying in one place for too long as this may cause them to step on a jellyfish. Also, if they do end up getting stung then you should go find some fresh water and pour it on the wounds. Make sure they don’t lick the wounds because it could make the stinging even worse!