This year, the summer has been long, and many of us are excited to take our dogs on a beach vacation. But here are a few things you need to keep in mind while planning a beach vacation with your dog.
1. Choose a Dog-Friendly Beach:
Always check that the beach where you are planning to go on a vacation is dog friendly. Read the rules beforehand. The last thing you need is to end up on a beach that does not allow pets. Dog-friendly beaches will let your pet be leash free and truly enjoy the outdoors. Racing along the shoreline with your buddy is a great bonding time. Your dog will also have fun digging in the sand.
Additionally, you should also be mindful of your dog’s behavior while on the beach. Even if the beach is dog-friendly, you should still make sure to follow any rules or guidelines in place to ensure that you and your dog are not disrupting other beachgoers. This might include keeping your dog on a leash at all times, cleaning up after your dog, and making sure that your dog is not causing any problems for other people or wildlife.
2. Give Your Dog Swimming Lessons:
Different dog breeds behave differently around water. Some dogs, such as retrievers, are natural swimmers, but others may not be that comfortable around water bodies. Learn more about dog breeds from TrendingBreeds. Taking a dog to a beach is no fun if it does not enjoy the water. Better make your dog used to water bodies by taking it for a few swimming lessons in a pet-friendly swimming pool. Once your dog feels comfortable swimming, it is ready to explore the beaches.
3. Socialize Your Dog with Other Dogs Beforehand:
A dog-friendly beach means there will be other dogs too there. If your dog is not comfortable around other dogs, it can be a problem. You need to socialize your dog beforehand to ensure that you can take it to such public places. If there is a dog park in your locality, take your dog there several times a week to make it used to be around other dogs.
4. Find Fresh Water and Shade:
It’s important to keep your dog hydrated when you take them to the beach, especially if they are running and playing near the shore. The ocean may be a large water body, but the water is not safe for dogs to drink, so you should make sure to bring a bottle of water and a bowl for your dog to drink from. It’s also a good idea to bring a portable water dish that you can fill up with fresh water as needed.
It’s also important to be mindful of the weather conditions when you take your dog to the beach. If it’s a particularly hot and sunny day, your dog could become dehydrated or overheated. Make sure to stay in areas that offer shade, such as shacks or beach umbrellas, to give your dog a break from the direct sunlight. You can also bring a cooling mat or a damp towel for your dog to lie on to help them stay cool.
Overall, it’s important to be prepared when you take your dog to the beach by bringing plenty of water and finding ways to keep them hydrated and cool. This will help ensure that you and your dog have a safe and enjoyable time at the beach.
5. Provide Sun Protection:
Dogs can burn, too, especially if they have light skin or short fur. They also have cancer risk, just like humans. Their ears and nose are the most susceptible areas to get sun damage. Hence do not forget to take a sunscreen made for pets. You can also make the dog wear a shirt to cover it up. You should plan the beach timing such that your dog is not exposed to harsh sunlight. Avoid the beach during the afternoon when the sun is the brightest.
6. Stay Near Calm Water:
Aim to take the dog to a beach that has calmer waves. Rough water can be dangerous for dogs and can overstrain their tail. You should avoid those beach parts that can get busy with surfers, jet skis, giant waves, etc. The dog can get anxious in those parts of the beach and react in a way that is not desirable.
7. Take Swimming Precautions:
If your dog is a pro swimmer, still, the sea is unpredictable. Make the dog wear a life vest. You should also use a long leash to ensure your dog does not go too far in the water. This will give you better control over the dog and is a significant relief to know that the dog is safe when enjoying the water.
8. Watch What They Drink:
Many dogs love to drink salt water at the beach, but too much salt is bad for dogs. Keep an eye out and do your best to limit your dog from drinking salt water. Encourage your dog to drink fresh water instead of keeping it hydrated. A thirsty dog is more prone to drinking salt seawater. If not, you will be dealing with a dog with an upset tummy.
9. Look Out for Dangers in the Sand:
Many small items can be partially or fully hidden in the sand, such as a seashell, rocks, coral, broken glass, or garbage thrown by people. Your dog may be curious and explore these items. You have to ensure to keep an eye on the dog.
Another thing you need to look out for is the hot sand on the beach. Walk along the edges of the beach where the sand is cold due to the seawater to avoid your fury friends’ paw burn. Walk barefoot on the same to understand if the sand is bearable. If not, it can burn your dog’s paw; hence, make them wear dog boots.
10. Pick Up Their Poop:
The beach may say dog-friendly, but that does not mean you leave the poop lying behind. Remember, dog poop is a problem for fish and wildlife. So mindfully pick it up to avoid water or soil contamination. Always carry a poop bag with you when traveling to ensure that you do not leave any mess behind. Also, you should follow the rules when you visit any pet-friendly area, and they always ask you to clean up after your dog makes a mess. It is better to stick to the rules if you do not want your furry friend to be banned from the beach.
11. Rinse Your Dog:
After the beach visit, you have to rinse off the dog’s coat to get rid of any sand or salt and beach germs before you head home. This will prevent skin irritation caused by sand and salt. Carry a towel along to dry the dog as well. Especially if your dog’s skin is sensitive, it can cause severe itching. The dog can drag along the sand on their coat and soil the house.
The Bottom Line:
Vacation is always fun, especially when your furry friend comes along. A few simple precautions and preparations can make the entire experience enjoyable for both of you.
