6 Tips for Planning the Perfect Beach Getaway with Your Dog

A trip to the beach with your dog can be one of the most exciting and memorable experiences you’ll have all summer. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re well-prepared before you hit the shores. Ample preparation will ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry friend.

Below are a few tips that you can use to plan a paw-some beach getaway with your dog:

Check if the Beach Allows Dogs

Before you even plan for a beach adventure with your canine companion, you’ll need to be crystal clear about whether the place is dog-friendly. Not all beaches allow dogs in their premises, and those that do may have some specific rules or restrictions you need to follow. Check local regulations to find beaches where your dog can run around and fully enjoy the sea, sun, and sand. 

Pack Appropriately for Your Dog

Once you’ve found a dog-friendly beach, the next thing you should do is get the essentials packed and ready to go. Some of the most important things to bring are the following:

• Your dog’s collar with identification tags. Make sure to include up-to-date contact information in case your dog gets lost.
• A leash or harness to keep your dog safely under control during beach walks.
• A doggy beach towel or mat so that your dog can have a comfortable spot to relax on in the sand.
• A beach umbrella or a small tent that you and your dog can use for shade.
• Your dog’s water bowl and lots of fresh water.
• A doggy life jacket. If your dog loves swimming, a life jacket will provide some added safety.
• Some simple toys, such as frisbees or balls, so that your dog has something to do or play with when out of the water.
• Personalized accessories. Let your dog express their style and personality with fun beach-themed accessories, such as custom dog bandanas. Aside from making a fashion statement, these items can also make your dog noticeable to other beach goers and make it easier to find them in case they stray far from your view.
• An adequate supply of waste bags to clean up after your dog.

Keep Your Dog Hydrated and Protected

Hanging out on the beach can be fun, but also hot and tiring for your furry friend. Thus, it’s crucial to prioritize your dog’s hydration and protection from hazards like sunburn and heat stroke. As mentioned above, remember to bring your dog’s water bowl and plenty of fresh water with you to the beach.

You should also bring dog-friendly sunscreen to apply on your dog’s coat. While there are some human sunblock lotions that can be used on dogs, especially those formulated for babies, there are some products that aren’t canine compatible. Sunscreens that contain zinc oxide, for example, can be harmful to your dogs. Fortunately, there are many pet-friendly sunscreens available in the market. Apply layers to your dog’s nose, armpits, and groin.

Finally, limit the time you and your dog spend under direct sunlight. Consider bringing an umbrella or a tent so that you have somewhere shaded to take breaks. You should also avoid prolonged exposure during peak hours when the sun is at its strongest, which is usually between 10:00 in the morning to about 3:00 to 4:00 in the afternoon.

Avoid Saltwater and Sand Ingestion

The beach can certainly be like paradise, especially for a water-loving dog, but it can also pose harm if you aren’t careful. For one, if your dog ingests too much saltwater, they might end up having diarrhea or severe dehydration after your beach trip. If they end up eating some sand, on the other hand, there’s a chance that they might suffer from an upset stomach or other digestive issues.

Always have some fresh water with you on the beach so that your dog can get a refreshing swig at any time. If your dog knows that you have water with you, they’ll also be discouraged from drinking saltwater. Meanwhile, you can use toys to distract your dog from eating or digging in the sand. Be prepared to run around and play with your dog to divert their attention from places where their maw or snoot shouldn’t be. 

Clean Up After Your Dog

As a responsible dog owner, you should also exert every effort to keep the beach clean and hygienic. Don’t be remiss in packing plenty of dog waste bags. 

Some dog-friendly beaches may provide their own plastic bags, but it’s still best to be prepared. You should also consult the beach’s guidelines for disposing of dog waste properly. If the beach allows dogs, they’ll likely already have designated trash bins where you can throw pet waste. Otherwise, be prepared to carry the waste with you until you find an appropriate disposal area.

Be Mindful of Potential Dangers

You may have your sights set on enjoying the beach with your dog, but don’t forget to watch out for potential hazards that may pose a risk to them. For example, be cautious of the open waters. Even if your dog is a capable swimmer, you’ll want to keep them away from areas with strong waves or currents that could potentially drag them under.

Remember to also watch out for jellyfish or other marine creatures that can cause harm. Stay vigilant and lead your dog away from any potential dangers in the sea. Be mindful as well of shell fragments, rocks, hazardous debris, or other sharp objects that could injure your dog’s paws. To play it extra safe, bring some dog shoes for the beach. 

 

In summary, planning a beach getaway with your dog means being a little more thoughtful about the usual beach prep that you do. But it’ll all be worth it if it means that you can truly enjoy soaking up the sun, feeling the sand beneath your toes, and swimming in the sparkling waters with your pup!