We know summer is quickly coming to an end, but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop! This August heat calls for some fun in the sun (and water!). If you're planning an end of summer beach trip for you and your pooch, keep reading!
Here are some of our top tips for taking your dog to the beach. Our dog loves a place called “Dog Beach” in Delray Beach, Florida but there are beaches nationwide that allow dogs and their pet parents to soak up the sun and play in the sand. Dog friendly beaches are a place where they can run around off leash (if allowed), dig in the sand and swim in cool water.
However, beaches can pose some risks for your pet as well. In addition to prickly plants like cactus, and thorns, there are also insects such as mosquitoes and horse flies and other animals that you’ll want to look out for. When bringing your dog to the beach, you'll need to ensure he or she has access to fresh water and is protected from potential dangers.
Bringing a Dog to the Beach: Tips for a Succesful Trip
1. Make Sure You Find a Beach That Allows Dogs
This may sound obvious, but before you go, check with the city to see which beaches near you allow pets to visit. If a beach allows it, you can bring them there without worrying about breaking the rules or getting ticketed. Be aware that many beaches may not allow dogs, and some may only allow service animals.
2. Bring Fresh Water and An Umbrella for Shade
One must-have item to bring with you is clean, fresh water for your dog. While your dog will likely want to start lapping up the cool ocean water, the salt content will not help keep them hydrated. Your pooch will need access to fresh water to ensure they don’t end up dehydrated. You can bring a travel dog bowl, their bowl from home, or just use your water bottle! It’s also a good idea to bring a large umbrella to make sure your pup has a nice shady place to rest when they get too warm.
3. Teach Your Dog to Swim
If your dog likes to go in the water, teach them how to swim! Dog life vests are available for dogs and puppies of all sizes and will help keep them safe in the water. If your dog can swim, they will also be less likely to overheat or suffer from heat exhaustion, making it a more enjoyable trip for you and your pup!
4. Watch Out for Rough Waters and Strong Currents
In addition to making sure your dog wears a life vest, keep an eye out for rough waters or strong currents. Your dog may be a strong swimmer but they can still be easily swept away by a strong undercurrent or get stuck in rough waters if you aren’t paying attention.
5. Keep An Eye on What Your Pooch Eats and Drinks
If your dog is anything like ours, they will eat just about anything they find on the ground! Be sure to keep an eye on them to keep them from eating too much sand, small rocks or even little ghost crabs! Also make sure they aren’t ingesting too much ocean water as the high levels of salt aren’t good for their bodies.
6. Keep Your Pet on a Leash
Make sure to read the beach rules before heading to the beach to see if dogs are allowed off leash. Even if your dog is friendly, sometimes it’s best to keep them on a leash so they don't wander off and get lost. It’s also a good way to ensure you can control your dog in the off chance they find another animal or sea creature they don’t like!
If it’s an off leash dog park, it is still a good idea to get a feel for the other dogs there and their owners before letting your dog loose. It could be a good idea to give your dog a dose of CBD before heading to the beach in case they are hyper in the car or overly anxious.
Our CBD Oil for dogs can also help keep your dog calm and help control the barking at other beach goers and all the other dogs.
7. Use Dog-friendly Sunscreen
To protect your dog from the sun, spray or spread sunscreen on his fur and body before going to the beach. Avoid using human sunscreen since most of them can cause severe reactions in pets.
If you have any questions about this, talk with your vet beforehand and discuss the best sunscreen for dogs. It’s also a good idea to take frequent breaks and get your dog out of the direct sun to stay cool. Cover your pet with a beach blanket to help protect him from the sun if it's too sunny.
Conclusion
If you want to take your pet to the beach, there are many things you can do to keep him safe and comfortable. The most important thing is to protect your dog from sunburn and heat exhaustion, so be sure to use sunscreen on his body and fur.
He or she will also need plenty of water to stay hydrated, so bring a travel water bowl with you. With these tips and tricks, you'll have a wonderful time with your pet at the beach!