How Can I Protect My Dog's Paws From the Beach?

September 27, 2022 4 min read

Before you take your dog to the beach, consider how to protect his or her paws from the elements. You can use sunscreen and avoid deicers, among other precautions. It's also important not to disturb wildlife. Some species, such as shorebirds, use beaches as a stopover point on their migration. Dogs should also refrain from digging holes in the sand. This is a potential hazard for beachgoers, baby sea turtles, and birds. Check out for more useful dog beach gear.

Avoid Digging Holes in the Sand

One of the worst irritations at the beach for dogs is sand. This soft material can be hot and painful for your dog's delicate ears and fingers. A great solution is to place your dog in a shaded area. It is also a good idea to avoid taking your dog on long walks on hot surfaces.

When you are out on the beach with your dog, take the time to make sure that they don't dig holes in the sand. If you find them digging holes, simply toss them a treat to distract them. By scattering the treats around the area, they will be forced to spend longer looking for the treat, and this will distract them from digging.

Avoid Chasing Birds on the Beach

If you go to a beach with your dog, you may be tempted to allow him to chase the birds. However, if you are unsure of where the birds are nesting, you should keep an eye on your dog. Many dogs like to chase birds because they believe that they will get something in return. Moreover, dogs have a keen sense of smell and an acute eyesight.

Although many beachgoers think dogs are harmless, the fact is they are causing unnecessary stress to seabirds and other birds. It is better to give the birds some space instead of chasing them. By ensuring your dog is on a leash at all times, you will minimize your dog's exposure to birds and keep your dog out of harm's way.

Use Sunscreen

Dog sunscreen comes in many different forms, including sticks, wipes and sprays. Choose one that is safe for your dog's skin type and preference. Sprays dry faster than stick sunscreen, and may be easier to apply to your pup. Avoid applying sunscreen to your dog's eyes or near the mouth.

Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more to prevent your dog's teeth from becoming irritated. Always look for a sunscreen that doesn't contain zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid, which are toxic to dogs. It's also important to choose a waterproof formula with no fragrances, and a minimum SPF of 15 or 30. Look for one with oxybenzone and titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. Avoid any sunscreen that contains octinoxate, as it's harmful to marine life. It's important for our four-legged friends to stay cool at the beach, learn more about it!

Avoid Deicers

Dogs' ears are more vulnerable to developing infections than human ears, so it is important to wash your pup thoroughly after they return from the beach. Also, avoid dog waste, which can harbor diseases. To protect your dog's ears, avoid deicers on the beach.

Avoid Broken Glass

Fortunately, you can keep your dog safe from the dangers of broken glass at the beach by taking the necessary precautions. While small bits of glass are easily swallowed, larger pieces can cause serious injury. If you are unsure about whether your dog was harmed by a piece of glass, check its mouth for blood. If it does, it's probably been cut by glass. Take note of the area and visit the vet if necessary.

Dogs are highly susceptible to skin cancer, so it's a good idea to focus on their ears and nose, as well. To protect their ears and nose from the rays of the sun, you can buy sunscreen for them or suit them up in a sun shirt. The best way to limit your dog's exposure to the sun is to plan ahead of time for periods of less sunlight. In addition, make sure to watch for sand-covered objects such as broken glass and metal.

Avoid Metal Pieces

While visiting the beach, keep an eye out for metal pieces that might be harmful for your dog. Even the toys you buy for your dog might contain metal. The risk of long-term exposure to metals or other poisonous materials is real. It is better to choose toys that are made from natural materials such as rubber and cotton.

Avoid Saltwater

While it may be tempting to let your dog play in the water, this is not a good idea for your dog's teeth. Too much saltwater can lead to a variety of problems. For example, it can lead to a dog experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Moreover, your dog may also develop excessive peeing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's time to take your dog to the veterinarian.

Another risk that you must consider is the sand. Even if your dog loves swimming in the ocean, you should be aware of the risk of sand blockage. Moreover, salty water can dehydrate your dog quickly. If your dog starts to vomit or is displaying signs of dehydration, it's best to visit the vet. Another risk is the sharp objects in the sand. Some of these objects can hurt your dog's teeth and cause intestinal obstruction.



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