6 Hidden Dangers of Taking Dogs to the Beach, According to Vets, That Could Lead to Death
The summer season is the ideal time for Brits to get away from it all with their families and pets and go exploring.
And now that the weather remains warm, a day at the park or the beach is at the top of many people’s wish lists.
1
Experts are warning pet owners to be vigilant when walking their dogs this summer, especially if they are taking their dogs to the beach.
According to Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, it is important for dog owners to be well prepared so that they can travel safely with their dog.
According to the Gloucestershire vet, there are six hidden dangers to look out for, from drinking salt water to open holes.
Angela Laws, head of community at UK pet sitting platform TrustHousesitters, also urged pet owners to “prioritise safety” and “be aware of potential dangers.”
Preventing injuries
The sand may contain large holes that could injure your dog if he trips or falls into them.
Dr. Rebecca warns pet owners that if you are playing fetch with your dog, he may not expect a hole as he runs. This can cause him to fall and injure himself.
Talking to the Female, Dr. Rebecca also wanted to consider other pets who go to the beach, if you and your dog decide to dig a hole and fill it back in before you leave.
Food for the mind
While you would never think of drinking sea water, your pet may see it as a big bowl of water.
However, according to Dr. Rebecca, drinking seawater is extremely dangerous for your dog.
According to Rebecca, drinking salt water can disrupt the ‘electrolyte balance in the body and cause dehydration’.
This also applies to sand, because too much sand can cause a painful blockage, ‘which may require surgery.’
Check the temperature
Just like people, pets can suffer from heat heart attack at.
It is most common when body temperature rises from 36°C to 40°C.
Dr. Rebbeca advises caution when outdoor temperatures rise to 25°C, and especially when they are warmer than 27°C.
She also warned pet owners to research their dog’s breed, as some dogs are much “more susceptible to heat stroke.”
According to Dr. Rebecca, this includes dogs with flat faces, such as pugs and bulldogs, and large breeds with thick coats.
She urges dog owners to make sure their pets are well hydrated, keep them in the shade and be careful not to burn their paws on the ground.
Take their strength into account
Dr. Rebecca advises pet owners to always keep an eye on their pets, especially when they are swimming.
She also warns that even the best swimmers may struggle to keep up when there are strong currents.
Think of the others
The beach is teeming with insects and sea creatures that can also be dangerous for your pet.
Veterinarian Dr. Rachel Siu Reveals the 5 Dogs She Would Never Own
By Marsha O’Mahony
HOAR
A husky is beautiful, intelligent and super active. He is a working dog just like a border collie and likes to be busy.
If you live a sedentary life, then this man is not for you, and you are not for him.
It should come as no surprise that Huskies love the cold – just look at that coat. So, life in 110 degree Texas is pretty grim for these dogs.
DACHSHUND
Cute, sweet, funny and they can be very expensive.
The basic physiology of these dachshunds doesn’t do them any favors. “Because of their long backs, they are very susceptible to intervertebral disc disease,” Dr. Rachel said.
It is wise to put some money aside just in case, as back surgery can be quite expensive.
DANISH DOG
These cheerful, affectionate and sociable dogs are ‘jokemakers’.
But they have short lifespans and develop health problems early in life. Prepare for heartbreak.
DRAWING
These are the current “it” dogs, they are everywhere. They can be mixed with almost any other breed.
Their popularity has increased dramatically in recent years as pet owners are impressed by their easy-care and hypoallergenic properties.
But nothing could be further from the truth, according to our vet.
“These dogs are often paired with shedding dogs, so they also shed and need to be brushed very often,” she wrote.
Their temperaments are unpredictable and she has seen some that have been great to work with, but also others with serious behavioral problems.
BULLDOGS
These guys are cute, but they have serious breathing problems. Genetics are not on the side of a brachycephalic dog.
“I just wouldn’t own them,” she said. “They’re just not a healthy breed. They have trouble breathing with their squished faces.”
Like the dachshund, they suffer from intervertebral disc diseases.
Be careful with jellyfish and biting ants. If you suspect your dog has been stung, Dr. Rebecca warns that you should see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Dangers of Digging
Never leave your dog unattended while he is digging through the sand, as there may be hidden dangers.
Dr Rebecca, it could be anything from discarded BBQs with hot coals to broken glass and sharp objects.
She said, “If your dog has a tendency to dig, make sure you are nearby in case you make any unexpected finds.”
