DIY Dog Stuff is Hitting the Beach!

Next weekend, we'll be headed to the beach. In my research of trying to make our beach camping trip go as smoothly as possible, I came up with a few things to ensure your pooch enjoys paradise.

 

 

• Fresh Water. No one likes a mouthful of salty ocean water. Make sure both you and your pup stay hydrated by bringing fresh water.

          *Please Note: Too much salt water can cause vomiting and diarrhea.*

• You know that feeling of dread when you left your flip flops by your towel and you have a couple hundred feet of scorching sand to get across? Your dog feels the burn the same way. Try to limit his walking on the dry sand during the hottest part of the day. Remember to lay out a towel as well.

• Find out if the beach you’re doing to allows off-leash dogs. If so, be prepared for “visitors.” If the beach is off-leash approved and you want to partake, make sure your dog has a reliable recall. If dogs are required to be on leash, follow the rules (required length included).

• Pick up after your dog. The mom down the beach doesn’t want her little Johnny building a poo castle! Plus, it’s just gross. If by chance your dog has been sneaking sips of the salt water, you may want to bring a shovel. Just because he got the runs, doesn’t mean you get to leave it.

• We already mentioned clean water to drink, but make sure you are able to rinse off your dog. The salt water is rough on their hair (and our hair too!), plus it can cause some skin irritation. Rinse their hair, collars, leads, etc.

• Fetch in the ocean? If your dog loves fetch, try bringing a floating toy with you. Just make sure it isn’t one you mind losing! Fetch is a whole different game when waves are involved.

• Sun and Sand? How about some SHADE! If possible try to find a shady spot. If there aren’t any, make your own. You can use an umbrella or one of the shade tents. We’ll be bringing Quest’s pop-up crate. It has large mesh “windows” for ventilation and is easy to pack. I mentioned getting Quest his own little shade tent, but the husband quickly vetoed that plan.

• Also, along with the Sun comes Sunburn. If you have a light colored dog, a dog with a pink nose or upright ears, or even a hairless. Please look into dog-safe sunscreen. Remember, Zinc is toxic to dogs! Those of the hairless variety may also want to look into a t-shirt.

Quest has only been in rivers and lakes...this will be interesting!

• This will be Quest’s first time in the ocean (he’s spent time at the lake before), so he’ll be wearing his harness and remain on a long-line in case we have to fish him out of the big drink. As for our dogs with short legs, snort muzzles, or those that just can’t swim very well, there are many options out there for doggy lifejackets. Not every dog swims like a fish!

Once we get back, I'll put up some pictures of Quest kickin' it on the beach.

In the meantime, what are your tips for a fun (and safe) beach getaway with the pups?