Written by Corey Chiang
Going to the beach is a summertime favorite for many and bringing man’s best friend can make it even better. However, before your next beach trip there a couple of things to know to have a successful trip.
Bringing Water!
This may seem to be a no-brainer and while you may bring water to the beach, it might not be enough. Bring enough water to last your dog a couple of hours, usually two 1-gallon water jugs is enough for one or two dogs depending on their size. Don’t forget a bowl to pour the water in as well.
Bring some form of shelter!
Bring some type of umbrella for shade maker for when you and your dog no longer want to be sitting in the hot beating sun. This will provide a great spot for you and your dog to relax and enjoy the beach without roasting in the bright sun. This will also increase the amount of time that you will want to be at the beach together.
A place to sit!
Do not bring a towel to sit on, because other dogs on the beach or even your own will walk on it and get it sandy making it an unpleasant spot to sit. Bringing an elevated spot to sit such as a camping chair or a beach chair as this will keep your seat sand free but will also no have you sitting directly on the sand. Remember, it’s a dog beach and dogs use the bathroom where ever they want, including the spot you chose to sit.
Beware of Saltwater Poising!
Salt water poisoning can be deadly. It is when your dog drinks too much salt water at the beach, either on purpose or inadvertently. Sometimes dogs drink it because their owners do not bring enough water or they are playing with toys such as a tennis balls or bumpers in salt water and inadvertently swallow it. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy and can onset within hours. To prevent this, bring adequate amounts of water, watch your dog closely and do not allow them to drink any saltwater.
Introducing your dog to the water!
Everyone has a vision in their mind this spectacular time of playing in the water with their dogs at the beach, sometimes that’s not the reality. This is especially the case if it is their first time experiencing it. Some dogs are afraid of water or very apprehensive of the waves crashing on the beach, don’t fault them for this. The wave break can be loud, the ocean spray in their face can be alarming, and running into moving water may not be at the top of their list of things to do. This is all normal, with time your dog will be OK with getting their feet wet.
If your dog is apprehensive to get near the water, do not force them in. Do not drag them by their collar and do not pick them up and force them to swim back to shore. Forcing your dog into the water at the beach can cause a lot of undue stress on your dog and can become a very traumatic experience for them. This can cause them to scratch you if you decide to carry them in or can even cause them to run away because they are so frightened.
If your dog is apprehensive, I recommend taking it easy. Allow your dog to inspect the water line on their own and praise them anytime they show interest in it, sometimes they just need reassurance. Once they are comfortable at the waterline, you as the owner walk into the water without them, and they will naturally want to be with you. They will start to slowly get in the water follow and eventually will be confident enough to swim on their own and enjoy it. However, note that some dogs are not fond of water and that’s OK.
Use these useful tips for your next beach trip and enjoy the sun, water, and sand! Happy beaching!
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