When summer comes around, many of us like to head to the beach with our furry friends. But how safe is the beach for our dogs? There are a few things to consider before taking your pup to the ocean.

Here are some tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach.

1. Keep your dog on a leash

Even the most well-behaved dog can get excited and run off on a beach. To avoid losing your dog, always keep them on a leash. Additionally, many beaches require dogs to be on a leash at all times, so make sure to check the rules before heading out.

2. Watch out for sea creatures

The beach can be home to a variety of sea creatures, some of which can be harmful to dogs. Jellyfish, stingrays, and even crabs can all pose a threat to your dog. It’s important to keep an eye out for any creatures on the beach and in the water.

3. Protect your dog from the sun

Just like humans, dogs can get sunburned. If you plan to spend a lot of time at the beach, make sure your dog has access to shade, and consider applying a pet-safe sunscreen to any exposed areas such as the nose and ears.

4. Watch out for hot sand

The sand at the beach can get extremely hot, especially in the middle of the day. This can cause burns to your dog’s sensitive paws. Try to walk your dog on cooler sand, or invest in a pair of dog booties to protect their paws.

5. Provide plenty of fresh water

While a swim in the ocean may be tempting, it’s not safe for dogs to drink saltwater. Make sure to bring plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink, and encourage them to drink frequently to avoid dehydration.

6. Supervise your dog at all times

Perhaps the most important tip of all is to never leave your dog unsupervised at the beach. Accidents can happen quickly, and even a strong swimmer can get caught in a rip current. Always keep a close eye on your dog to ensure they stay safe.

7. Check for beach closures

Finally, it’s important to check for any beach closures or warnings before heading out. Some beaches may be closed due to dangerous conditions, and others may have specific rules regarding dogs on the beach.

Make sure to do your research before heading out.

Conclusion

While the beach can be a great place to spend time with your dog, it’s important to take precautions to keep them safe.

By keeping your dog on a leash, watching out for sea creatures, protecting them from the sun and hot sand, providing plenty of fresh water, supervising them at all times, and checking for beach closures, you can ensure that your dog has a fun and safe day at the beach.