Keeping your dog safe at the beach

Dog beach safety starts before any paws have even touched sand. When planning a beach trip with your dog, make sure to check the weather beforehand.

Avoid taking your dog out in high temperatures. Our four-legged friends can’t regulate their body temperature in hot weather the same way we can. Exercising your best pal in temperatures as low as 21-degrees Celsius can cause heatstroke which can be fatal, so take extra care.  

It’s also important to check that the beach you’re visiting allows dogs. There are plenty of dog-friendly beaches around the UK. But some beaches have a dog-free policy at certain times of the year, or dog-free areas. So, it’s a good idea to check before you go. 

Happy that your destination will make a suitable playground for your pooch? Follow our tips below to enjoy your beach trip safely and keep them wagging on the waterside: 

Be alert to weather conditions

• Check the sand isn’t too hot before taking your best friend on it. Make sure you can stand comfortably barefoot before you let their paws do the same.
• Provide shade and fresh drinking water for your dog all day so they don’t overheat or become dehydrated.
• Avoid sunburn – keep your dog out of direct sunlight where possible. Use pet-safe sun cream on exposed skin, like the tips of their ears and nose. Ask your vet for more advice if needed. 
• Dogs should never be left alone in cars. You may already be aware of this one, but even a few minutes could prove fatal. On a 22-degree Celsius day, the temperature inside a car can rise by eleven degrees in just ten minutes. If you see a distressed dog in a car, call 999. 

Keep your dog safe on the sand

• Dogs shouldn’t drink sea water (no matter how tasty) as it can cause sickness and saltwater poisoning. Make sure your pooch isn’t eating anything else they shouldn’t like seaweed or plastic. Call your local vet if they do. 
• Bring some treats so you can swap unsuitable items your dog picks up for a safe snack.
• After a beach day with your mucky mutt, rinse any sand and seawater off their coat and paws with tap water to stop it building up and causing irritation. 

Good handling practice and emergencies

Keep your dog on a lead if you are close to cliff edges or fast-flowing water. This also applies to the beach if your dog hasn’t mastered recall. Tip: long leads will let them explore the beach safely. 

If heading for a coastal walk, check tide times to ensure you and your pup don’t get stranded. Tide times and heights can change quickly throughout the month, so be alert.

If your dog goes into the water, over a cliff edge or gets stuck in mud, don’t go after them. Move to a place your dog can reach safely and call them. If you’re worried, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. The RNLI treats pets the same as it does humans and will always help if they can.