Taking Fido To The Beach

Sarasota’s beautiful beaches are known worldwide, and are definitely the envy of many of our friends and family members up north. Whether you prefer Siesta Key, Anna Maria, or any of our other local spots, chances are, you visit the Gulf regularly. Our canine pals also enjoy going to the shore! However, you’ll need to take some precautions to keep Fido safe and healthy by the water. A Sarasota, FL vet discusses dog beach safety below.

Your canine pal should be fixed, microchipped, wearing proper ID tags, and current on vaccines and parasite control before visiting the beach. Fido should also obey basic commands, like Sit, Stay, Come, and Lay Down. This is very important, as you want to be able to keep your pup from approaching strangers or potentially dangerous areas.

Dogs’ paw pads are very sensitive. Your pooch can get painful burns walking or running on hot ground. He can also cut himself on sharp rocks or shells, or broken glass. Use paw balm to protect your furry buddy’s paws. Fido’s feet will be especially delicate when they’re wet, so be extra careful after he’s been swimming.

While some dogs are natural swimmers, this isn’t always the case. Keep a close eye on Fido, and don’t let him swim in choppy waters or strong currents.

Dogs can overheat very quickly running and playing on hot days. In summer, avoid going to the beach during the hottest part of the day. Mornings or evenings are usually cooler. Although many parks and beaches have faucets or fountains, you should always bring water along for Fido. You may want to get a doggy water bottle with an attached dispenser, or collapsible plastic bowls.

Always pick up after your dog! We recommend storing extra waste baggies in your car.

Before you head home, rinse your furry pal down to get the salt and sand out of his coat. For some extra tail wags, give Fido a cold treat, like doggy ice cream, when you get home.