Are you planning to hit the beach this summer? Many of our canine pals love going to the shore. Fido does look pretty cute running after his favorite Frisbee, or splashing around in the waves. However, the beach can be a dangerous place for your four-legged friend. A local Fayetteville, NC vet offers some safety tips on taking your pooch to the shore in this article.

To Beach, or Not To Beach

The beach isn’t going to be right for every dog. Small dogs and brachycephalic pups can overheat extremely fast, so even crossing the sand may overexert them. These pooches also aren’t good swimmers. If you aren’t sure whether or not Fido will make a good beach bunny, check with your vet.

Choosing The Spot

Only take Fido to spots that are dog-friendly. This isn’t just about following local regulations, though that is of course important. Pet-safe beaches often have shallower slopes and gentler currents, which make them safer for Man’s Best Buddy to splash and swim in. North Carolina has several great dog beaches, including Fort Macon State Park, Bald Head Island Beaches, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Fisher State Park, Oak Island Beaches, Emerald Isle Beach, and Nags Head Beach. Exploring these gorgeous spots can make great one-tank trips for you and your furry pal!

Packing

You’ll need to bring a beach bag along for your canine buddy. Water is the most crucial thing to pack. Your furry friend will get hot and thirsty very quickly at the beach. If it’s hot, you can also bring a few frozen bottles of water, so Fido always has cold water as they melt. Other must-haves to bring include towels, a collapsible bowl, dog-safe sunscreen for that cute nose, paw balm, a first-aid kit, waste baggies, and a shade umbrella. We’d also recommend bringing an extra tie line, and a stake that’s made for sand.

Paw Care

Pay attention to those furry feet! Fido can get painful cuts and blisters running and playing on hot sand. Sharp rocks and shells can also cause cuts and infections. His paws will be particularly delicate after he’s been swimming. Paw balm or wax will protect those toe beans.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care. As your local Fayetteville, NC animal clinic, we are here to help.