Helpful Hints

Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion

This potentially life-threatening condition can be avoided easily.

Heat exhaustion is often caused by over-exercising or running with a dog during hot weather. Both heatstroke and heat exhaustion can result in brain damage, heart failure or even death in a short period of time. Short muzzled and thick-coated breeds and mixes are particularly vulnerable, although any breed may be at risk. It is important to remember that our canine friends cannot perspire as we do, so they rely on panting as the primary way to get rid of the heat from their bodies. In order to compensate for this, always bring cool water along when walking, running or playing with your dog on the beach during hot weather.

While playing with your dog, you should limit the amount of exercise and pay close attention to their breathing habits. When planning a long day at the beach, be sure to also give them a place to lie in the shade.

To cool off an overheated dog, offer him plenty of water, wet the dog's body and paws with cool water, then fan. A dog's normal internal body temperature is between 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. If the dog experiences heatstroke or heat exhaustion, he should receive veterinary attention as soon as possible.

And remember! The sand can get VERY hot in the summer months, and your canine companion can burn his/her foot pads. Therefore, it's better to walk early in the morning or just before sunset when the sand is cool.

Lastly, never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle.

Drinking Ocean Water

Please be sure to bring plenty of cool, fresh drinking water for your pet. After playing on the beach all day, many dogs will become thirsty and get the urge to begin lapping at the water’s edge; this can be very dangerous to your dog. Side effects of salt water ingestion include dehydration, diarrhea and vomiting. If you notice your dog has some of these side effects and they last longer than a short while, please take them to a veterinarian to ensure that they are not suffering from severe dehydration. (Severe dehydration can cause damage to your pet’s internal organs.)