Going to the beach is always fun, but if you want to make it even better - take your dog with you. Dogs, just like most of us, can also enjoy a day on the beach. However, taking your canine pal with y... Going to the beach is always fun, but if you want to make it even better - take your dog with you. Dogs, just like most of us, can also enjoy a day on the beach. However, taking your canine pal with you requires some preparation. After all, anything that can harm you, such as sunburn, broken glass or seashells, jellyfish, etc, can also harm your dog. Therefore, there are some things which you should consider before you head to the beach. Water Bringing enough water for you and your dog is vital, because you surely don't want either of you to get dehydrated. Moreover, your dog shouldn't be allowed to drink salt water because this could cause severe dehydration, vomiting and diarrhoea. And of course, don't forget to bring your dog's bowl, so it can be able to drink whenever it feels like. Sunburn Just like us, dogs could get sunburned, especially the short-coated and/or light-coloured dogs, and those who have had their summer haircuts. But even dogs with thick coats could get sunburned. Thus, to avoid this, specialists suggest to purchase dog sunscreen which contains non-oily special ingredients suitable for any dog. Apply the sunscreen to your dog's nose, ears, the inside of his back legs and any other part of its body that receives direct sunlight. However, DO NOTÂ use sunscreen that contains zinc because they can be toxic to your dog and avoid sunscreens that contain different fragrances. Other Beach Hazards If the sand is too hot it may burn your dog's paws. Pet stores sell special dog socks, but they are usually uncomfortable and easy to lose. Therefore, I suggest to water your dog's paws before crossing hot sand, and to reach a shady area as fast as possible. Also, check its paws regularly because seashells of broken glass could cut them badly. Always have a first aid kit around you, in case your dog cut itself or a jellyfish stings it. If you have a puppy or your dog simply doesn't want to swim - don't push it. Contrary to the common belief, not all dogs love water, so if your canine pal is hesitant to enter, let it be. Once you get home, make sure you wash your dog well. Some dogs' skin might be sensitive to salt water, thus rinsing it as soon as possible will prevent skin irritation. And some specialists point out, don't forget to clean the sand which your dog will bring in the house. Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com