Keeping your dog safe at the beach

There’s nothing better than a summer day at the beach, and what dog doesn’t love tearing across the sand? Of course, the beach comes with risks, but with a bit of preparation, you can make sure you and your pet enjoy a safe, happy day splashing in the water.

Before you go

Before heading out, make sure you know the rules of the beach you’re heading to. Not all beaches allow dogs, and some have restrictions during peak summer hours. This is often to protect wildlife and to ensure that everyone can feel safe at the beach, so make sure to check your local council rules.

Try to time your visit to avoid peak sun hours of 10–4 to prevent the risk of overheating and dehydration.

There are a few essentials you’ll need to take with you:

• Fresh water and a bowl to keep them hydrated. If your dog drinks the salty seawater, it could cause vomiting, diarrhoea and dehydration.
• Get a pet-safe sunscreen and slip, slop, slap. Your pet needs sun protection just like you do.
• Provide some shade, such as an umbrella and a pop-up tent. Both you and your dog will enjoy this.
• A towel or blanket for your dog to rest from the hot sand, though they’ll still want to squash onto your towel.
• Poo bags: a must for any outdoor activity. No one wants a nasty surprise during a game of beach cricket.
• A well-fitted pet lifejacket, especially if your dog is new to swimming or you’re boating in deep water.

While you’re there

Sun protection, sun protection, sun protection!

Aotearoa is a danger zone for UV rays, and pets face the same risks as their humans when it comes to sunburn, heatstroke, and dehydration. Make sure your pet has shade, plenty of fresh water, and a pet-safe sunscreen, especially for thin-skinned areas like their nose, ears and belly. If you notice your dog seems lethargic, has thick saliva, or is panting more than usual, it’s urgent that you find them some shade and water. Have a look at our sun safety advice and soon you’ll be an expert on staying cool in the sun.

The hot sand also poses a risk to your pet’s tootsies. Before letting them loose on the beach, test the sand's temperature with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’ll be too hot for them. A towel can give them a cool place to sit. You could also consider some booties or paw balm, but your dog might take some time to get used to them.

Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Introduce them to water gradually, keeping a close eye on them, and never force them into deep or rough water. A well-fitted pet lifejacket can help them learn to swim safely. Remember, even strong swimmers can get into trouble with strong currents, waves and underwater hazards.

One more important thing to keep a lookout for: jellyfish, sharp shells, and trash that could injure your pet, and blue-green algae if you’re near still water.

After you leave

A quick rinse with fresh water before you head home will wash off any salt and sand. Make sure their ears are clean and dry to prevent the risks of ear infection. When you’re home, check their fur for ticks, cuts or irritated patches. If your dog starts vomiting or acting lethargic, that could be a sign they swallowed too much seawater or sand if concerns then contact your veterinary team for advice.

Enjoy the sunshine this summer, stay sun-smart and remember to paws for safety.