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With temperatures reaching high twenties in the UK, what better way to enjoy summer than heading to the beach?
Whether you have plans to stay at home or away this year, an expert has warned of a number of coastal dangers that could harm your dog or even kill him.
According to Gloucestershire vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan and UK pet care platform TrustedHousesitters, discarded barbecue embers and drinking salt water are just some of the dangers that could prove fatal to your furry companion.
To help dog owners plan a safe visit to the seaside this summer, experts have revealed six hidden beach dangers to look out for, as well as five dog-friendly UK beaches that guarantee “wonderful memories”.
Angela Laws, Community Manager at TrustedHousesitters, added: ‘While a day at the beach can be a fantastic adventure for both pets and owners, it’s essential to prioritise safety.
Gloucestershire vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan and UK pet sitting platform TrustedHousesitters reveal six beach dangers that could harm your dog (file image)
“By being aware of the potential dangers and taking simple precautions, we can ensure that our furry friends enjoy the beach as much as we do. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way toward creating wonderful memories for the whole family, both two- and four-legged.”
Here, we reveal six hidden dangers lurking on the beach and how to keep your pet safe from them, as revealed by our expert.
1. Open holes
According to Rebecca, it’s not just what’s in the sand that poses a threat, but the sand itself, as beaches often contain large holes.
She explained: ‘Large holes dug in the sand can pose a major tripping hazard for dogs running or chasing toys on the beach. Your dog may not expect a hole because he is running at high speed and could fall and injure himself.’
If you or your dog decide to create a hole in the sand, experts warn that you should be careful of other pets that go to the beach and fill it in before you leave.
2. Consumption of sand and salt water
A picturesque day and a scorching sun are the perfect combination to make your dog feel thirsty and dehydrated.
With a large body of water in your sights, your pet may crave a sip of seawater, but this seemingly harmless act could lead to disaster, the expert said.
She added: “When a dog ingests salt water, it can upset the electrolyte balance in the body and lead to dehydration. Impaction is also another risk for dogs that have a habit of ingesting sand.
‘Too much sand in your pet’s digestive tract can cause a painful obstruction, which may require surgery.’
3. Beware of marine life
From jellyfish to stinging ants, the beach can harbor plenty of dangers, so it’s best to supervise your dog at all times.
“Jellyfish stings can occur in water or on land, especially if your pet is the curious type,” the doctor said.
‘Bite bites can range in severity from mild irritation to anaphylactic reactions. If you think your dog has been bitten, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.’
4. Strong currents and waves
Even the most talented doggy paddlers can find themselves in deep water when faced with powerful currents, Rebecca says.
“Take into account your dog’s swimming ability. If your pet is older, young or debilitated, it is not wise to allow him to swim beyond his depth,” he added.
Rebecca said there may be broken glass or sharp objects hidden beneath the surface of the sand and advised keeping an eye on your dog at all times (File image)
The expert stresses the importance of keeping an eye on the dog at all times during its stay on the beach.
5. Heat stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body temperature rises above its normal range of 36°C to 37.5°C and reaches 40°C. However, the outside temperature does not have to be that high for there to be a risk of this occurring.
Experts recommend taking caution when the thermometer reaches 25ºC and extreme caution when it exceeds 27ºC.
The doctor warned: ‘Some breeds will be much more prone to heat stroke, including brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds such as pugs and bulldogs, as well as large or giant breeds with thick coats.
‘Take precautions with pets in extreme heat, making sure they are hydrated and adjusting walking times to avoid the highest temperatures. Remember that beaches lack shade, so although the sun may be welcome for us, our furry friends run the risk of burning their paws and overheating.’
6. Unsupervised excavation
While your four-legged friend may be tempted to do some innocent digging on the beach, unsupervised missions can unearth hidden dangers.
“Barbecues are common on the beach during the summer months, so make sure your pet doesn’t rummage through leftover food or people’s trash,” the expert warned.
‘While people should dispose of hot coals responsibly, there are common stories of people or animals being burned by discarded barbecue coals.
‘There may also be broken glass or sharp objects hidden beneath the surface of the sand, so if your dog is prone to digging, make sure you’re nearby in case they find something unexpected.’
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