Life's a Beach! Dog Safety at the Shore

The month of August is known for many things: back to school shopping, National Dog Day and just one last trip to the beach before summer ends. Bringing your dog along can be tempting, as there are numerous New Jersey beaches that allow pets to enjoy the sand and surf with their humans. Just like you need to prepare for a beach trip by packing your swimsuit, sunscreen and cooler, there are steps you should take to get ready for a day of paws in the sand.

Most important in preparing for a doggie beach trip is packing all the essentials. For your dog to stay safe and cool, bring a beach umbrella, towels or blankets and lots of water! Basking in the sun might be good for your tan, but it can take its toll on your pup. There is always a risk of overheating, but being proactive and knowing the signs can help keep everyone safe.

Make sure you station yourself near a shady spot (or set up your umbrella) so your pet can escape the sun. As discussed on Animal Planet’s Dog Guide Blog, sand can be scorching on your pet’s paws. Lay out a towel or blanket for them to relax on, and encourage them to at least get their feet wet in the surf. Just as the hot sand hurts less on your feet after a dip in the water, your pet’s paws will be much less sensitive after a romp in the waves.

Discourage your dog from drinking the salty ocean water, as it will do nothing to help with hydration. Have plenty of clean water ready for your pet to drink throughout the day, even after a swim when they seem cooled off. Be extra careful with short-muzzled breeds like English bulldogs, Boston terriers, boxers and pugs; they tend to overheat faster than many other dogs with longer snouts.

In addition to keeping your dog hydrated, you also need to protect their skin! That’s right, your pup can get sunburn, too. Sunscreen made specifically for dogs is an easy find during the summer months, and should be applied to your dog’s ears, nose, inside of their back legs and anywhere other sensitive areas that will receive direct sunlight, especially on shorter-haired breeds.

Unsure if you want to bring your dog along to the beach? The number one thing to consider is your pet’s recall skills. Dog-friendly beaches are large, open areas that will more than likely be filled with distractions. For safe off-leash fun, your dog should be well-trained in coming back to you when you call. If your dog is prone to run after another dog, person or even a seagull, consider doing some more training practice before taking your dog to such a stimulating environment. Always have plenty of treats on hand to reward your dog for a recall well done!

If your beach plans don’t involve your dog, Morris Animal Inn is happy to provide your pet with their own summer getaway or “staycation” while you take your trip to the shore. Call us at 973-539-0377 to book your pup for daycare filled with pool and group play fun so you both can have your own “vacation” day!

Sandy Paws: Caring for Your Dog at the Beach



For a typical day at the Jersey shore, you may be more concerned about keeping sand and its tell tale crunch out of your turkey sandwich or fitting into that itsy bitsy teeny weenie yellow polka dot bikini, but your canine has a few more issues to contend with before heading down the shore. We’ve outlined some hidden dangers you may encounter at the shore and share helpful tips to ensure the whole family has a safe and fun time at the beach, including the furriest!

Nature is Not Always Edible
Dogs do not have quite the same discerning, limited palate we humans do. It is pretty clear to us what is considered food and what isn’t. Not so for Fido. The world is a veritable smorgasbord that includes substances as varied as plastic and Styrofoam. Protect your dog’s digestive system by keeping close watch over him or her. Do not let your curious canine crunch on dune grass or sand or allow them to lap up salty sea water. All of these things, though natural, can upset your dog’s stomach. Too much salt water can also cause diarrhea. Click here for more information on salt water’s effects on your dog.

Creatures to Avoid
Though the expression is curiosity killed the cat, it can be easily applied to a dog. There are many nautical creatures both you and your dog should steer clear of at the beach. Though you can look at a safe distance, don’t touch! This includes crustaceans such as crabs and lobsters whose sharp claws can nick your dog and jellyfish that sting.

Sunburn

Yes, your dog can get sunburn! Dogs that are particularly susceptible are those with thin hair or white hair and dogs that have pink skin. It is a safe practice to use sun tan lotion on sensitive parts of your dog's skin like their nose, ears, and stomach. However, you can't use human sun tan lotion on your dog because it contains zinc oxide which, if licked off the skin, can be harmful to your dog. Try waterproof sunscreen for babies or speciality sunscreen for dogs. Ask your veterinarian about protecting your dog from the sun this summer.

Hydration
Your precious pooch can easily become overheated or dehydrated at the beach in the hot summer months. Monitor the amount of your dog's activity and do not let him or her overexert themselves running on the beach or in and out of the water. Bring a beach umbrella and a collapsible water bowl and encourage your pooch to lie down in the shade and drink fresh water.

Just like small children, when you bring your dog to the beach, you must be prepared to supervise your dog at all times for their safety. Even if your dog is a good swimmer, you should never let your dog jump in the surf without your supervision. It is also important to note the rules of your dog-friendly beach and adhere to them. If that includes keeping Fido on a leash, do it! You don't want to be kicked off the beach, and most importantly, you don't want your darling dog or someone else's dog to get hurt. With these tips in mind, you and your dog are on your way to becoming the coolest and safest beach bums around!

What is your dog's favorite thing about the beach?