A dog day at the beach

In regards to summer there are many important things, I can’t wait to share with our new clients for better help with their pets to keep them healthy, safe and happy, especially living in a place like Florida.

Beach days can be a blast when you bring along a canine pal, but taking a dog to the beach requires some preparations!

Anything that can harm you at the beach can also harm your dog, such as sunburn, riptides, jellyfish, broken glass, sharp shells and other dogs that may be aggressive.

Remember that the sand can be scorching on sensitive paws. Also avoiding overheating is definitely an important safety rule.

Be familiar with your favorite beach’s rules and make sure your dog is fully vaccinated and on heartworm, tick and flea preventative.

Be aware of dog’s tolerance to water, heat and exercise . Some may be at risk according to their age, weight or/ and breed.

Clean your dogs ears after a day at the beach.

Things that you should bring to the beach along with you:

1. – Collar, leash, Rabies tag, identification card
2. – Bowl and abundant supply of fresh drinking water. Discourage your dog from drinking seawater by offering him fresh, cool, clean water, and by removing him from the water if you see him drink it. Seawater is a gastrointestinal irritant that can work as a laxative or cause vomiting. Salt water on a dog’s skin and paws can be irritating.
3. – Blanket or towels.
4. – Bring a first aid kit with you in case of cut paws or jellyfish stings.
5. – Umbrella for shade. consider keeping a T-shirt on your dog while he’s in the sun and always provide a shady resting spot.
6. – Zinc-free, friendly sunscreen
7. – Poop bags

Contact Good Shepherd Pet Hospital in these instances immediately:

• * Heatstroke , drowning, sunburn or burning foot pads.
• * Wounds: Jelly fish stings, dog fights, fish hooks and broken glass.
• * Ingestion: sand , salt water, blockage, Gastroenteritis, shells, fish hook, garbage, Dead Sea life or sunscreen.

You also may watch for signs of overheating in dogs, which include:

• – Vomiting and/or diarrhea.
• – Excessive/rapid panting and drooling.
• – Coordination problems.
• – Collapse.
• – Loss of consciousness.

Overall there are many things to keep in mind while experiencing the fresh air with your best pals! I just know in my heart this is going to be a great summer full of fun, loving and happy pets.