The beach is a fun place for everyone to enjoy including your pet dog. Unfortunately, some owners don’t realize the possible dangers at the beach that can affect your pet. While it’s a great place to take your dog, all pet owners need to be on the lookout to ensure your pet doesn’t come in harm’s way. The following are the top tips that you can consider when it comes to keeping your pet safe at the beach.

Read on for Beach Safety Tips for your Dog:

beach dogSwimming – It’s important to remember that not all dogs can swim, no matter what anyone says. When taking your dog to the beach it’s important that you find some quiet water to introduce your dog to first before deciding to take them into deeper water. Never, under any circumstance, throw your dog into the water and expect them to swim. Instead allow them to walk in the waves with a long leash if you’re not confident of their swimming skills. The leash will help to stop them from entering the deeper waters. If your dog can swim, make sure you keep an eye on them when they’re in the water at all times. Hidden rips and large waves can sweep them out into the ocean in no time at all, so always be on guard.

Salty Water – Another way to keep your pet safe while at the beach is not letting them drink the salty ocean water. Too much salt, like in humans, can cause your pet’s health to deteriorate. Instead it’s best to bring your own water from home and a bowl to give your pet a drink. It’s always advisable to have a couple of bottles on hand to help reduce the risk of dehydration and heat stroke.

 

Life Vest – If you have the money, there are pet life vests that can be purchased to help keep your pet afloat if they do decide to enter the water. Life vests for pets work the same as they do for humans. They are generally brightly coloured and keep your pet floating, especially when they’re in trouble or swept out to sea.

ISS_2252_00717Sharp Objects – Before letting your pet off the leash it’s important to check for sharp objects and hidden dangers. Some beaches have shells, sharp rocks, jellyfish or coral which can injure your pet’s feet. Keep monitoring your pet and their body language to see whether they’re in pain during their beach trip. If so, they may have stepped on something. This also applies when swimming, check just under the water to see whether there are any hidden dangers that may be lurking and that may cause injury to your pet.

Have fun, but be safe!

Taking your pet to the beach is a great way to spend the day. Whether you have one or multiple dogs, always be on the lookout for some of the hidden dangers at the beach. So, when are you taking your pet dog to the beach?

 

Article written by Cecelia Casillas, co-authored by Martha Thomas.

About the author: Cecelia was born in Mexico, a country of vivid beauty and colourful people, Cecilia Casillas brings the passion of her country of birth into her current artistic work with pets. Cecilia has painted since childhood, and studied with Mexican painter Paul Achar and Chilean painter Carlos Arias. In 2014, she came to Melbourne to continue refining her artistic skills, and finishing her bachelor’s degree. Founding Colour Pet Studio in 2014 has allowed her to share her pet painting skills with people from all over the world. She now brings pet owners joy through her painting. Visit Colour Pet Studio at http://colourpetstudio.com.au