Beach Safety for your Pet
Beach Safety Tips
Here are some beach/water safety tips from the American Kennel Club and American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals:
Check daily water conditions – Ask your lifeguard about the water conditions. Dogs are easy targets for jellyfish and sea lice.
Limit running if your dog is not in shape – Running on a beach is strenuous exercise, and if your dog is not in good physical condition he/she could easily pull a tendon or ligament.
Provide fresh water – The salt in seawater can make your dog ill. Freshwater streams and lakes can contain parasites and unhealthy bacteria. Make sure your dog stays hydrated. See our post on Dog Dehydration
Check if pets are allowed - Not all beaches or lakes permit dogs.
Stay away from currents – Don’t let your dog get over tired and keep the dog away from currents.
Don’t get in over your head – If you and your dog swim together don’t let the water get over your heads. Many dogs will try to climb on their guardian’s head or shoulders when they tire.
Use a canine life vest for boating – For boating or swimming in lakes, get your dog a well-fitted canine life vest. To keep your dog from swimming too far away use a long nylon lead. Keep a close watch to make sure your dog doesn’t get tangled in the lead.
Keep fishing gear and fish away from pets -If you take your dog fishing make sure they can not get close to fishing lines, lures, hooks or bait. Keep your dog away from feces, dead fish and shellfish washed up on the shore. They can contain toxins and parasites.
Rinse your pet at the end of your visit to the beach – Salt and other minerals found in the ocean can damage your dog’s coat. When you are ready to leave for the day, rinse him with fresh water. Don’t forget to rinse the paws. You might also consider giving your pet PetAlive Skin & Coat Tonic which will act as a preventative to keep their coat healthy. Also if your dog has a heavy or soft coat, brush her thoroughly after she’s dried following a swim. Soft coats can mat when wet and trap bacteria that can create local areas of infection called “hot spots.”
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Wed, 14th Oct 2009 7:05 am
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