As the summer heats up many people head to the beach, but there's no reason to leave your dog at home! Fort De Soto has a beach where dogs are allowed in a designated area. Before heading out, read these tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach:
- Check conditions. Hazards such as jellyfish, undercurrents, and sharp objects pose just as much of a threat to dogs as they do to humans.
- Keep your dog hydrated. Bring plenty of clean, fresh water—and never let your dog drink salt water. It can make him sick.
- Be vigilant. Remember that many items washed ashore, like fishing lines, litter, plant-life, and dead fish, may not be safe for your dog. When he goes exploring, keep a close eye on the objects he finds.
- Keep a close eye on your dog and be aware of other dogs around. Stay within reach as dogs are often not on a leash at the dog beach.
- Pick up after your dog! Keep our beaches clean and pleasant for other visitors.
- Give your dog a bath. There are faucets located at the adjacent dog park to give him a good rinse with fresh water before leaving the beach. When you get home, make sure to wash your dog immediately! Salt and other minerals from sea water can be harmful to your dog's coat and health.
- Remember to update your dog's vaccinations if necessary. Precautions should be taken against diseases such as rabies, distemper, parvo and kennel cough.
- Dogs can get sunburned too, especially short-haired dogs. Apply sunblock—to his ears, nose and any other area where the fur is thinner—30 minutes before going outside. Many pet stores have sunblocks made just for dogs.
- No matter how careful and responsible you may be, accidents can still happen. Make sure you have our phone number (and that of an emergency clinic) close at hand.
Click here for a complete list of rules at the beach and any of Pinellas County's dog parks.
In our next post, we'll talk about keeping your dog safe when they go in the water.
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