This Summer whether you’re boating, swimming, dock diving or just sailing a Frisbee on the beach, chances are, your dog wants to share in the fun. And why not? Here are a few precautions to help keep your dog safe, everyone can get their paws wet at the beach:
Check the water conditions — Keep your dog your in calm waters, away from speedboats, swift currents, riptides and undertows. Never leave pets at the beach unsupervised in the water.
Don’t forget the life jackets — Most assume that dogs are natural swimmers but some breeds, especially those with flat faces, barrel chests and short legs, such as bulldogs and pugs, can have a hard time staying afloat. A life jacket with a top handle for lifting dogs out of the water could be a life saver.
Make sure ID tags are current — An unexpected thunderstorm or a loud noise can spook some dogs and send them running. Always make sure his or her ID tag contains your current contact information. Same goes for their microchip.
Keep it cool — Many breeds, especially brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs, can easily succumb to heatstroke. Make sure to provide plenty of shade and fresh water. If your dog begins panting excessively, soak a towel in cool water and put it next to the skin, or take your dog to an air-conditioned spot to cool off.
Bring plenty of fresh water — Lakes, ponds and streams can contain blue-green algae, which can be deadly to dogs, as well as bacteria and protozoa that can upset the digestive tract. Avoid the problem by bringing a collapsible bowl and plenty of fresh drinking water for your dog.
Avoid sunburns — Look for a fragrance-free pet sunscreen or a sunblock with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB barriers. Once applied, prevent your dog from licking at it until it soaks in. Rub the cream on nose, ears and belly.
Protect the paws Walking barefoot on hot sand is totally unforgiving to our tender feet. Both in the and and water there can be lots of things hidden such as; broken glass, fish hooks, shell shards and other dangerous objects. Help keep your dog’s paws safe with canine beach shoes.
Rinse your dog’s coat — At the end of the day, shower off your dog with fresh water to eliminate the sand, salt, bacteria or seaweed caught in his or her hair. Then it’s time to relax on your beach towel and share a slice of watermelon (with the seeds removed, of course) with your exhausted, but happy, canine pal.