SEA, SAND AND A WAGGY TAIL

Finding a quiet, sandy beach can be the perfect day out for all the family, including your furry friend. There is plenty of space to chase a frisbee or go for a doggy paddle, so your dog is bound to have plenty of fun!  So, if you’re planning a beach trip with your dog, just like our Superfan Bella here, we’ve pulled together our top tips for a great day out and keeping your furry friend safe too.

Sandy paws

We may love the feeling of sand under our toes (or paws!), but it can be a hazard to your dog if they eat too much. Keep an eye on them when they go digging or if they get their toys too sandy, as it can cause a blockage in your dog’s tummy, which if they swallow a lot, they could end up needing vet treatment.

Doggy paddles

If your dog is keen to dip their paws in their water and get their fur wet, then make sure to keep an eye on them as not all dogs can swim. If they are tempted to go in the water and they can’t swim, put them on their lead and take a stroll along the water’s edge or stay further up the beach. Be careful of strong tides and waves, even experienced swimmers, dogs and humans, can get caught up and the current can make your dog tired as they have to swim harder. Here is our Superfan Astrid getting her paws wet at the beach!

Too much salt

When you go to the beach with your dog, make sure to take plenty of fresh drinking water for them to avoid them drinking the seawater. Seawater can give your dog diarrhoea or sickness, but if your dog drinks too much seawater, it can cause even more harm and lead to kidney failure. If you are concerned your dog has ingested too much seawater, make sure to contact your vet.

High temperatures

Dogs need shade in high temperatures, so don’t forget to take a parasol to create shade for your dog to protect them. We have all experienced the feeling of walking on sand that is too hot, ouch! – just imagine how hot it would be for your dog’s paws. If it is too hot for your toes, then it is too hot for sensitive paws, make sure to provide a towel or blanket for your dog to lay on and avoid going to the beach during the hottest parts of the day.

Seaweed and debris

Being at the beach is good fun for your dog and it is a chance to put their noses to the test to explore all the different smells and objects, keep an eye on your dog to make sure they don’t pick up any rubbish and avoid them eating seaweed. Dried up seaweed found on the beach is dangerous for your dog to eat, it can cause blockages in your dog’s stomach as the dried seaweed expands. If you think your dog has eaten seaweed on the beach, contact your vet to get them checked.

A day out to the beach is great fun for dogs and people alike, so keep an eye on your four-legged friend whilst they play, so that a fun day at the beach doesn’t end up with a trip to the vets. Tag us in your seaside pictures of you and your dog on social media, we’d love to see them!