With summer approaching and temperatures rising, it is time for beach trips to get cool and have some fun. And while you plan to chill with water splashes, why not share this joy with your furry family member? It is no surprise that dogs enjoy beach visits as much as their human companions. Well, dogs need protection from heat just the way you need. So, how do you keep your four-legged friend safe when you take them to the beach? Let’s find out.
In this article, we have listed some useful tips to keep dogs safe during beach visits in summer. Read on to plan a safe and fun-filled beach trip with your pooch.
Tips to keep dogs safe during beach visits in summer
First and foremost, search for dog-friendly beaches and check the local regulations. On some beaches, dogs are allowed on certain days or certain times of the day, at some beaches, dogs must be on a leash, while others have designated areas where dogs can play off-leash. Once you have shortlisted the one where you would take your fur buddy, consider the following tips to make the trip safe and enjoyable:
- Select the right day
While you will enjoy sitting by the seaside on a very hot day, it may not be the same for your fur baby. Dogs can suffer from dehydration, skin irritation and excessive panting due to overheating and exhaustion. Select a comparatively cooler day for a beach visit when your dog is going to accompany you.
- Provide adequate shade
Your fur friend can suffer from heatstroke due to direct sun exposure. To save them from this danger, provide them with adequate shade. Take an umbrella or a tent with you when you visit the beach.
- Bring dog booties
The hot sand can cause burns and cracks in your pet’s paw pads. Avoid very hot sand while taking your canine companion on a beach-side walk. It is also a good idea to protect their paws with booties. Additionally, you can apply paw balms like Dermoscent BIO BALM before and after the trip to keep your dog’s soft paws moisturized.
- Use dog sunscreen
Dogs can get sunburn just like humans. The sensitive areas like the nose, ears, belly, etc., are vulnerable to heat. Use sunscreen specially formulated for dogs before you bring your dog to the beach. Petkin offers a range of sunscreen products for dogs. You can try Petkin’s Doggy Sunwipes, Doggy Sunmist spray, or Doggy Sunstick rub as per your pooch’s preference. Dermoscent’s Sunfree is also a good option to provide moisturizing sun protection to your pet.
- Provide fresh drinking water
Dogs like salty water. But, drinking the saline seawater can lead to vomiting, weakness or neurologic symptoms like staggering in your furry companion. Make sure you restrict your pet from drinking seawater. Instead, provide plenty of fresh drinking water to keep them protected from salt toxicity as well as dehydration.
- Restrict your dog from eating sand
Your dog can ingest sand while retrieving sand-covered fetch toys or while playing in the sand. This can lead to sand impaction resulting in intestinal blockage. Be vigilant and restrict your dog from eating sand. You can use a tarp or blanket on which your dog can play with their toys.
- Beware of sea hazards
Sea animals like stingrays and jellyfish harboring near the shore can harm your dog. Also, the consumption of blue-green algae present in water can be toxic to your canine friend. Additionally, high tides or deep waters can be dangerous even if your dog knows how to swim. Stay alert while your pooch is playing at the beach to prevent any accidents and keep them safe.
- Use a long leash
Dogs can get carried away when they are excited and happy. It is a must that dogs follow a recall command if they cause disturbance to fellow beachgoers. If your furry companion has not yet mastered this command, it is better to keep them on a long leash (around 20-30 feet). This gives you control over your dog’s movements while giving them enough room to run and play.
- Carry a first aid kit
No matter how hard you try, accidents can happen. Your dog can get small injuries like a jellyfish sting or a cut on a paw. It is better to be prepared for primary care. Keep a first aid kit with you to handle such incidents.
In the end
Beach trips in summer help keep dogs cool and add fun to their routine. However, dogs also need protection from heat just like humans. Consider the tips mentioned in this blog while you are getting ready for an exciting beach visit with your furry family member to make it a safe and joyful experience for both you and your dog.
Apr 04, 2025
