11 Things to Know BEFORE Bringing Your Puppy To The Beach: Tips & Safety
WRITTEN BY: JE’ANA C.
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Are you planning to take your whole family and furry friend on a beach vacation? You should know that not all public beaches permit dogs, so it will be a good idea to do your research in advance. However, that’s not the only thing you should be aware of. As pet owners, there are important things that you should know before bringing your puppy to the sandy beach to ensure your dog’s safety.
We will be sharing our best safety tips on everything from the dog beach & and vaccination shots to Parvo and must-have essentials for the perfect beach day. These tips are suitable for ALL dogs, including a new puppy and small dogs. Read more to discover how to make a safe trip to the beach with your furry friend!
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What Is Canine Parvovirus?
Parvo is a scary thing that dogs can get, especially young puppies. If your unvaccinated 9-week-old puppy were to lick, sniff, or ingests infected feces from the beach sand, then it would become ill. That’s why it’s very vital to make sure your puppy’s latest vaccination booster is up to date to keep your dog safe.
01) Beware of Hot Sand
Hot sand is very painful for humans and dogs, especially during the summer months. To prevent damage & discomfort to your dog’s paws, make sure you don’t stay on the hot sand for a long time and move to a more shady & wet area.
02) Early Morning Is The Best Time
If you know there are going to be hot days in advance, then an early morning beach day is the best. Not only will there be fewer people at the beach but you and your dog will get to experience the calm water. This is great particularly if it’s your dog’s first time going to the beach.
03) Don’t Forget Sunscreen
Although it’s commonly diagnosed in older dogs, skin cancer is real. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen liberally on your dog’s paws, ear tips, and nose! We recommend purchasing a sunscreen that is specifically formulated for dogs like the Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray for Pet from AMAZON.
04) Provide Plenty of Fresh Water & Shade
Beach days are always hot and sunny, so provide plenty of fresh water, shade, and food for your little furry friend. They will definitely thank you for it and it can reduce heatstroke! We highly recommend coming prepared with a big umbrella, a water bowl, and some tasty snacks.
5) Use a Long Leash
It’s best to use a long leash of at least 10ft and a durable harness. With this, your dog will still be able to enjoy fun activities at the beach, and you’ll still be able to pull them back to a safe distance from the ocean or when they have the urge to chase after seagulls. We recommend the Amazon Long Nylon Leash!
6) Make Sure Your Dog Likes Beaches
Some dogs don’t have the desire or the ability to be a strong swimmer, so don’t assume your dog can swim. If your dog doesn’t like the beach then don’t worry because there are tons of other fun destinations to take your dog to. For example, dogs parks and walking trails are great options!
7) Get A Life Vest For Your Pup
Are life vests suitable for dogs? The answer is YES! A life vest can ensure your puppy can splash around worry-free. They are beneficial for dogs or puppies going to the beach for the first time or trying to learn how to swim.
8) Give Your Dog A Full Bath
Always bathe your dog after a day at the beach. Salt water can cause skin irritation, especially for short hair dogs and those with sensitive skin. It can also damage your dog’s coat, so gently double wash your pup – if necessary.
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9) Avoid Aggressive Dogs
It’s common to see many loose dogs running about on the beach. Therefore, try to avoid any dog that looks aggressive and make sure your dog is also dog-friendly. If you don't feel comfortable, keep your dog on the leash or find a secluded spot.
10) Common Beach Dangers To Watch Out For
If you want to put your dog’s safety first, it’s essential to be aware of the typical beach dangers you need to be on the lookout for. The first things are dead fish, sharp rocks, and seashells. Also, be careful of potential outdoor biohazards – including venomous scorpions, spiders, snakes, insects. Most importantly, when your dog swallows salt water or ocean water, it can cause dehydration and discomfort. In some cases, it can be fatal.
11) Be Prepared
Being prepared is key for a fun and safe trip to the beach! Below are some recommendations on what to pack.
Cold Water
Long Leash
Beach Umbrella
Waterproof Dog Shoes For Extra Protection
Have you taken your pup to the beach before? If so, feel free to share some other tips with us!
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ABOUT FOUNDER & EDITOR
Je’Ana C. has been writing diverse content for clients and her own website for four years. She provides photography, ghostwriting, coaching, and content creation. Her educational background in the English Language & Humanities has given her a broad base from which to approach many topics. Her writing skills may be confirmed independently on shadesoftatiana.com.
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