Top 6 items should have for a Beach Trip with Your Dog

 Hitting the beach with your dog is one of the ultimate ways to spend a summer day. But before dogs can frolic in the sand and swim in the sea, pet parents need to be prepared and pack accordingly for a canine-friendly beach trip.

“Extended periods in the sun, extended periods in the outdoors on a warm day, or extended play in hot weather can lead to overheating and heat stroke—a serious and potentially fatal condition for dogs,” says Dr. Jerry Klein, a chief veterinary officer for the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Everyday essentials like a leash and harness are always important, but to prevent heatstroke and other potential beach dangers, pet parents should bring the following items when they hit the coast with their canine companions.

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Sunscreen for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs can get sunburned if they’re outdoors and unprotected for an extended period of time. So, make sure your beach bag includes some sunscreen formulated specifically for dogs, says Dr. Julie Cappel, managing veterinarian at Warren Woods Veterinary Hospital in Warren, Michigan.

Don’t use regular human sunscreen on dogs. Opt for a sunscreen that is made specifically for canines—or, if you’re in a pinch, sunscreen formulated for babies—and always pay close attention to the label. Zinc oxide and octisalate, two common ingredients in human sunscreen, can be toxic if licked off fur, cautions Cappel. “Sun-protective clothing, hats, goggles and T-shirts may also be used on dogs that will tolerate them,” she adds.

A Tent or Large Umbrella

Dogs should always have access to a cool area while on the beach, so pack something that is large enough to provide respite from the hot sun. “A trip to the beach, or other outings, should include some form of shade for your dog, such as a canopy or umbrella,” says Klein. “Be certain that whatever you use provides enough shade to cover the entire animal.”

“Dogs can overheat easily while playing in the hot sun,” adds Cappel. “So it is up to the owner to force them to take breaks in the shade to cool down so they don’t suffer from hyperthermia.
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Protective Booties and Towels

Just as you pack flip-flops and water shoes to protect your feet from hot sand and rocks, it’s important to bring some protective gear for your dog’s paws. “Hot sand can burn your dog’s paw pads,” says Klein. Dog booties or specially designed paw wax can help protect your pet from burns and sharp objects.

Klein also recommends bringing a towel to protect your dog’s body from hot sand while resting or lying down. “Because so much of a dog’s body is close to the sand, especially for shorter legged breeds, the warmth from the sand can contribute to overheating—even if a dog is in the shade and not exerting himself,” he says. “Be sure to bring a towel for the dog to lay on.”

Bottled Water and a Bowl

 

Hydration is key to preventing heatstroke in dogs, so pack plenty of fresh, bottled water and a collapsible water bowl that you can easily carry with you on beach walks.

Never let dogs drink saltwater, warns Cappel. “Saltwater can cause gastrointestinal upset and even toxicity when ingested,” she says. “Dogs should be supervised and not allowed to drink the beach water. They should be rinsed off with clean water after swimming to prevent salt ingestion or skin irritation.
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A Dog Life Vest

If you are planning on boating with your dog or allowing your dog to swim in deeper water, a life vest is essential. “Not all dogs can swim. Even those that can will tire out. Unfortunately, they can’t tell you when they are tired,” says Klein. “It’s very important that dogs have life vests when out on a boat, raft, or another floating device—basically anywhere a dog might not have access to easily get out of the water.”

When choosing a life vest for your dog, Cappel has some recommendations. “The straps should be adjustable in order to provide a good fit for each dog,” she says. “There should be a sturdy handle over the dog’s back, so he can be lifted from the water to a boat or dock if necessary. The vest should have padded straps for comfort and be lightweight to prevent the dog from getting too hot while wearing it.”

A First Aid Kit

No matter how careful you are during beach excursions with your dog, accidents can happen. Pet parents should bring along a basic dog first aid kit so they’re prepared to address minor injuries. “It is smart to always have a small first aid kit along on any trip with a dog just in case they cut their paw on something in the sand or tear a toenail,” says Cappel. “The kit should have something to clean a wound, antibiotic ointment, bandage material and bandage tape.”

Packing a dog thermometer in your canine first aid kit can also come in handy if you suspect your dog may be overheating. A normal dog body temperature should be 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit; anything over 103 degrees is considered too high and the dog should be taken to an conditioned area and allowed to cool down, advises Cappel. If your dog’s body temperature registers 105 degrees or higher, you should immediately take him to the veterinarian for emergency treatment.