There’s nothing better than sharing a day at the beach with your best mate – here’s how to do it safely. Photo: Zoe Cartwright.
Who doesn’t love to take their pup for a day at the beach, or a holiday on the water?
As much as most dogs love a good frolic at the beach, dam or river – especially in hot weather – hidden hazards mean a day out can turn into a pricey trip to the vet.
Sand ingestion, heatstroke and sharp objects are just some of the risks to pet health.
Top of the pops, though, is the ironic potential for dehydration and saltwater sickness.
If you’ve noticed your pup having a good go of the salt water after running around, haul them away and encourage them to drink some fresh water from home instead.
Saltwater ingestion can lead to vomiting, dehydration and even serious electrolyte imbalance.
Fresh water is often no better – lakes and slow-moving water can carry parasites such as giardia and leptospirosis, which can cause serious illness in dogs.
Eating things they shouldn’t is par for the course for many dogs, and sand ingestion can create digestive issues that require emergency treatment.
Lethargy, abdominal pain and vomiting after a trip to the beach are all warning signs something is amiss, and a prompt vet visit can save your pet’s life, and your wallet.
Coastal Vet Collective’s Dr Luke Michel said an ounce of prevention was worth a pound of cure.
“Check the conditions for things like bluebottles – they can eat them; makes them quite sore and ill,” he said.
“Keep an eye out for objects on the beach, especially abandoned fishing tackle.
“Stick to areas that are for dogs, and head out early or late if it’s a hot day.”
High temperatures can lead to dehydration as well as blisters and burns on bare paws.
Test the surface with your hand before allowing extended play. If it’s too hot for the back of your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
While you’re at it, keep an eye out for bluebottles, sea urchins and razor shells that can cut or sting curious dogs.
If you’ve taken your pup to an unfamiliar or crowded spot, make sure their microchip information and registration are up to date. A tag on their collar with your phone number doesn’t go astray either.
Even friendly dogs can bolt after birds, balls, or other stimuli, especially in a new and overwhelming place.
If you’re not confident in your dog’s recall it might be best to keep them leashed.
“We’re lucky to have some good off-leash beaches in the Illawarra, but not every dog is going to be comfortable in that environment,” Dr Luke said.
“It can be overwhelming for them, especially if there are a lot of other dogs.
“If you’re concerned, or they don’t have excellent recall, it’s better to stick to on-leash beaches.”
Taking precautions beforehand means they’re more likely to make it home safe and sound.
Once you have gotten home safely, give your pooch a good rinse off and keep an eye on them.
One of the lesser known risks of beach and water play is secondary drowning, sometimes called ‘dry drowning’.
This is where a dog inhales or swallows water while swimming, chasing a ball, or in rough waves.
Symptoms can develop hours later as fluid causes airway irritation or lung inflammation.
Signs can include persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, pale or blue gums, restlessness or anxiety and vomiting.
Any breathing changes after water play should be treated as an emergency.
Veterinary assessment is essential, especially if your dog took in a lot of water or struggled while swimming.
“It’s normal for dogs to be a bit worn out after a day at the beach,” Dr Luke said.
“Give them a good rinse and dry off to prevent hotspots or skin infections, and as long as they’re calm, settled and toileting OK there’s probably nothing to worry about.
“If they’re continually panting, uncomfortable or there’s anything out of the ordinary, get them checked out.”
