Is there anything better than seeing your doggo run around freely on the beach, sand kicking up at their furry heels and tails wagging in the wind? Whilst the beach is full of furry fun, there are also some hazards to be aware of to keep your hound safe and sound this summer!
Sun protection
Making sure your pooch is protected from extended exposure to the sun’s rays is important. If you’re spending the day at the beach, make sure you avoid the hottest parts of the day and take a parasol or sun tent to provide your pooch with somewhere to rest in the shade. You may also need to protect your pooch’s skin from harmful UV rays by covering sensitive areas such as noses (or any other hairless areas) with sunscreen. Don’t make the mistake of thinking your human sunscreen can be used on your dog. Zinc Oxide, a very common ingredient in sunscreen, is toxic to dogs. If ingested it can cause your dog’s red blood cells to explode, resulting in potentially fatal anaemia. Either purchase some animal sunscreen or check your human sunscreen ingredients carefully.
Swim safety
Just because they’ve paddled in the family pool, don’t take for granted that your furry friend can stay afloat in the sea. With the waves and powerful currents, your water baby can quickly get into trouble. Until you’re sure, try using a life jacket or watercollar like the HedzUp Watercollar to keep your pooch above water.
Salt water
Some dogs love to drink salt water but this can quickly become very dangerous! Even water soaked tennis balls or soft toys can carry enough water to cause problems for your pooch, if they’re retrieved multiple times. The ingestion of small amounts of salt water can quickly cause “beach diarrhoea as the excess salt in the intestines draws water from the blood into the intestines, causing the diarrhoea. Large amounts of salt water being swallowed can cause more serious problems such as vomiting, dehydration and seizures, and may require veterinary care
Remember to take plenty of fresh water to the beach. Collapsable water bowls take up barely any room in your bag and can be carried easily. Every 15 minutes, take a break from the water and offer your doggo some fresh water. If they’re disinterested in the fresh water, you can use a squirt bottle to rinse their mouth.
Overheating
Dogs can’t regulate their body temperatures through sweating, the same way humans do. They can overheat very quickly and develop heat stroke. Brachycephalic (short-muzzled) breeds, such as French Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs, Pekinese and Shih Tzus struggle more than other breeds and must be monitored especially closely. Check out our advice on how to prevent, spot and treat Heat Stroke in dogs
Are you heading out with your pooch this weekend? We’d love to see! Tag #madpawspack on your Instagram photo and you could appear on the Mad Paws Instagram!
