Summer is here and many of us love the beach or lake.  If you are planning to bring your lil dog to either of these here are some hints to keep the day fun and safe. Some dogs love the beach, but others do not.  If your dog has never been to the beach, take a quick trip and see if they like walking in the sand and water.  Hopefully, they will love it!  

FOOD/WATER:  You must bring cool drinking water and a bowl.  Periodically check your dog’s bowl to make sure no sand has collected in the water.  Do not allow your dog to drink salt water as excess salt can cause vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration (which can be fatal).  Lake water should not be ingested either.  It can contain bacteria, algae or parasites. Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria is poisonous to dogs and people).  Try checking online to see if the lake has had any warnings about algae. A great invention is the Paoakaola Dog Water Bottle 2 in 1 which also holds their food in a great take-along bottle.  If your dog prefers a bowl, the Slson Dog Collapsible Bowls with lids and buckle is a great alternative. 

SUNBURN:  Dogs can get sunburn just like people.  Their nose and hairless areas of skin, like the abdomen and groin are the most susceptible.  Use a beach umbrella or pop-up enclosure to give them shade to rest in.  If you are going to be in the sun for an extended period of time, apply sunscreen to these areas of your dog.  WARNING: Use a dog specific sunscreen, as many sunscreens contain zinc, which is toxic to dogs.  Also, use a sunscreen with UVA and UVB that has at least a 30 SPF.  EBPP Dog Sunscreen will keep your pet safe in the sun!

HOT SAND:  If the sand is too hot for your feet, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.  If your dog is comfortable and used to wearing booties, then use these to protect their feet from the heat of the sand.  If you are not sure if your dog will wear them, it is probably not a good idea to try them out on a visit to the beach.  Don’t force your dog to walk on the sand if it is too hot. If applicable, carry them to the blanket or cooler sand near the water.  

SWIMMING:  If you know your dog can swim, watch them closely.  It is recommended you have them on a long leash in case they get in trouble in the water, so you can pull them out.  If you are not sure of your dog’s ability to swim, put a lifejacket on them and be near them at all times. The Thinkpet Dog Life Jacket is reflective and has a handle at the top in case you need to lift your dog out of the water. Always pick the right size for your dog!  Don’t force your dog into the water unless they can stand up in it.  If you are going to take your dog on a boat, always put a lifejacket on them, which will protect them if they end up in deep water.  

ACTIVITY LEVEL: If you are planning to be in the sun for an extended period of time, control their activity level and make them rest periodically to prevent overheating.  If they are panting excessively (dangerous for short-nosed dogs like: Bulldogs, Pugs or Shih-Tzus), having difficulty breathing, are suddenly lethargic, having trouble walking or behaving abnormally they could have heat exhaustion or heat stroke.  Move your dog to a cool place in the shade and let them drink water.  You can pour cool water over them to try to cool them down and get them into an air-conditioned place.  If none of this works, get them to a vet immediately.  

Always remember to have a collar with ID on your dog at the beach and to keep them on a leash so they do not get into an altercation with other dogs or eat any trash that is laying in the sand. Something like GoTags Stainless Steel Pet ID tags will help to get your pet home quickly if they get lost. The beach, like dog parks, can be a dangerous place for your dog if they come upon an aggressive dog. If you know your dog is aggressive, try to find a quiet spot on the beach where your dog can enjoy his visit and not have to interact with other dogs. Also, do not let your dog enter the water near people that are fishing as they may go after the fishing line or lures.  

Once you are home or back at your hotel, shampoo and rinse your dog off as the sand can be irritating to their skin.  Enjoy the Summer with your furry friend and be safe!