I’m a vet – 6 hidden dangers of taking your dog to the beach this summer that can cause expensive operations or death
THE summer season is prime time for Brits to take some time out with their family and pets, and get exploring.
And with the weather staying warm, getting out and about at the parks or beaches will be at the top of many peoples to-do list.
But experts are warning pet owners to be vigilant when it comes to taking their dogs out this summer – especially when it comes to taking them to the beach.
Dr Rebecca MacMillan says it is important that dog parents are well prepped to ensure a safe trip away with their dog.
From consumption of salt water, to open holes, the Gloucestershire-based vet says there are six hidden hazards to look out for.
Angela Laws, who is head of community at British pet-sitting platform TrustHousesitters, also urges pet owners to “prioritise safety” and to “be aware of potential hazards.”
Preventing injuries
Large holes can be hidden amongst the sand, which can cause injury if your dog trips or falls into it.
Dr Rebecca is warning pet owners, as if you are playing fetch with them, your dog might not be “expecting a hole” as they are running, which can cause them to fall and injure themselves.
Talking to the Femail, Dr Rebecca also wanted to be mindful of other beach-going pets if you and your dog choose to dig a hole and to fill it back up before heading off.
Food for thought
Although you would never dream of drinking the water from the sea, your pets may view it as a large bowl of water for them.
However, seawater consumption is extremely dangerous for your dogs according to Dr Rebecca.
Drinking saltwater can disrupt the “balance of electrolyte in the body and cause dehydration,” according to Rebecca.
This is also the case for sand as too much sand can cause a painful obstruction, “which may require surgery.”
Check the Temperature
Just like humans, pets can get heat stroke too.
It is most likely to occur when the body’s temperature rises above 36C and hits 40C.
Dr Rebbeca suggests caution when the weather outside hits 25C, and especially if it’s over 27C.
She also warned pet owners to do their research on the type of breed of their dog, as some will be much more “prone to heatstroke.”
Dr Rebecca says these dogs include flat-faced dogs like pugs and bulldogs, and large breeds with thick coats.
She urges dog parents to make sure their pet is well hydrated, try to keep them in the shade and remember to be aware of their paws burning on the ground.
Factor in their strength
Dr Rebecca urges pet owners to keep an eye on their pets at all times, especially when they are swimming.
She also warns that even the strongest of swimmers can find it difficult to keep up when there are powerful currents.
Remember the others
A beach is filled with other insects, and marine life that can also be a danger to your pet.
Vet Dr. Rachel Siu reveals the 5 dogs she'd never own
By Marsha O'Mahony
HUSKY
Beautiful, intelligent, and super-active, like a Border Collie, a Husky is a working dog and likes to keep busy.
If you lead a sedentary life, then this guy is not for you, and you are not for him.
It should be no surprise that Huskies love the cold – look at that coat of fur. So, living in 110 degrees in Texas is pretty grim for these dogs.
DACHSHUND
Adorable, cute, funny, and they can be very expensive.
The basic physiology of these sausage dogs does them no favours. “Because of their long backs, they’re really prone to intervertebral disc disease,” said Dr. Rachel.
You would be wise to keep a pot of money aside just in case because back surgery is likely to be expensive.
GREAT DANE
These lolloping, loving, and gregarious dogs are “goofballs.”
But they have short lifespans, developing health issues early on in life. Prepare yourself for heartbreak.
DOODLE
These are the current “it” dog, they are everywhere. They can be mixed with pretty much any other breed.
Their popularity has soared in recent years, with pet owners attracted to their low maintenance and hypoallergenic qualities.
But this couldn’t be further from the truth, said our vet.
“These dogs are often mixed with shedding dogs so they do shed and they also need grooming very frequently,” she wrote.
Their temperament is unpredictable and she has seen some that are wonderful to work with and others who have serious behavioral problems.
BULLDOGS
These guys are adorable but they have serious respiratory problems. Genetics are not on the side of any brachycephalic dog.
“I just would not own them,” she said. “They’re just not a healthy breed. They struggle to breathe with their smooshed faces.”
Like the Dachshund, they also suffer from intervertebral disc disease.
Look out for jellyfish, and biting ants and if you think your dog has been stung, Dr Rebecca warns to seek vet advice asap.
Digging dangers
Never leave your dog unsupervised whilst they are digging through the sand as there could be hidden dangers.
Dr Rebecca there could be anything from discarded BBQ’s with hot coals, to broken glass or sharp objects.
She said: “If your pooch is prone to digging, make sure you’re nearby in case of any unexpected finds.”