How to Enjoy a Beach Day With Your Dog
Everybody wants to be the best pet parent and give their furry friends the enrichment they need and deserve. Unsurprisingly, dogs are the most popular animal in the country, with 38.4% of US households owning at least one dog.
Well, the best dog owners love to take their pups with them everywhere they go. If you want to take your dog on your next adventure, then here are some helpful tips to enjoy a beach day with your dog!
Choose the Right Beach
Remember, you need to choose a dog-friendly beach if you want to enjoy your day and, you know, not get kicked out. Look ahead of time at the beach near you to see if they allow dogs. If not, search for dog-friendly beaches.
Also, keep in mind that some may say "dog friendly", but they may not be right for your dog. For example, if your dog isn't well-socialized, you may want to find a beach with fewer dogs or people. Some beaches may only allow dogs if they remain on a leash, which may not be what you're looking for.
Otherwise, the beach may not be clean, which can pose health or safety hazards for your pup. Broken glass, excessive trash, and other hazards could threaten your dog's safety while playing.
You can use tools like Bring Fido to find which public beaches allow dogs and in what capacity. You'll even find reviews from other dog owners.
Consider the Temperature
Before going to the beach, consider the temperature outside and plan for it. If you have options for sun protection for your pup, then bring them with you.
However, bringing a long-coated dog to a beach when it's 90 degrees and sunny can pose serious hazards. Make sure you're aware of the temperature and weather conditions before you head to the beach, especially if your dog isn't a big swimmer.
Also, don't forget to monitor the temperature of the sand. If it gets too hot, either stay closer to the wet sand and play there or get off the beach. If it's too hot for your feet, it's too hot for theirs.
Don't Forget Water
No, not the ocean water. Your dog will need plenty of water to drink, especially on hot days. Remember to pack plenty of drinking water and a bowl for them to drink from, and don't let them drink the ocean water, no matter how delicious they may find it!
Plan Ahead to Find Shade
At some point, your dog will need to rest in the shade, which is hard to come by at certain beaches. If you're going to be exposed on the sand, the sun (and activities) can take a toll on your dog's health. Make sure you bring an umbrella, tent, or shade wall for your dog, as well as a leash to keep them in place as needed.
Play Beach Games
While remembering to monitor your dog's health to prevent overheating, play some beach games with them to keep them entertained. Some dogs will be more than happy to sit and dig in the sand, but others may want to get moving!
Play fetch, soccer, or any other games for dogs. If there's a fenced-in area, take them off the leash and let them run around.
Does your dog love to sniff? Hide treats for them (in safe containers) within close range and let them sniff them out.
You may have a good swimming dog. Try throwing balls, frisbees, or their favorite toys into the water for them to go get them, or just go for a swim with them. Either way, swimming is a great activity to help keep them cool!
Take Them on a Boat Ride
That's right; there are dog-friendly travel options for you and the whole family, including your pup! If you want to spend the day on the open water with your loved ones, don't leave your poor dog at home!
Located less than 20 miles from Key West, you can enjoy a beautiful day on the beach with your dog followed by a luxurious and relaxing private charter on the beautiful, sunny Florida waters!
Also, a boat will make it easier to keep your dog cool and in good health. A boat can provide ample shade, drinking water, and amenities to keep your dog safe all day, even in the hot Florida sun.
Remember to Rinse Them Off
Before bringing your dog back in the car, remember to rinse off their fur, especially on their legs. Otherwise, your car and house will be filled with sand and other materials found on the beach. Not only do you not want this in your car or home, but you don't want your dog to ingest it either.
While doing this, make sure to feel around in your pup's fur as you clean them off. This will help you spot any pests that may hide in their fur so you don't bring them home with you.
Enjoy a Beach Day With Your Dog
Now that you know how to enjoy a fun beach day with your dog, plan ahead and prepare for a beautiful day in the Florida sun. Remember to choose the right beach, accommodations, and activities to make the most out of your beach day. There are endless opportunities when you know where to look!
Stay up to date with our latest beach tips, and book a trip today for you and your furry family!