If you live on Long Island–or just go there frequently–you know we have some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. At Dan’s Pet Care, we think one of the best ways to spend a Long Island weekend is at the beach with your dog. What could be better than playing fetch in the sand, splashing in the water or just admiring the sunset or sunrise together?

Of course, the beach has its dangers, just like any other natural area. Even swimming pools can pose drowning hazards for dogs, causing around 5,000 drowning deaths each year. Drowning is even more of a risk at the ocean, with its strong currents and deeper floors. Besides drowning, the beach can pose other health risks to your dog (and to you). The good news is that you can take precautions to reduce these risks. Keep reading to learn more about keeping your dog safe when visiting the beaches of Suffolk and Nassau counties.

Research the beaches of Nassau and Suffolk County before visiting

Before visiting the beach with your dog, it’s important to know what to expect from that beach. Not all Long Island beaches are the same. For example, on the North Shore, you’re likely to find fewer waves and more calm water. Therefore, Long Island Sound can be an ideal spot to teach your dog to swim. However, you’ll need to keep a sharp eye out for boats and other watercraft that can threaten your dog’s safety.

Since beaches on Long Island’s South Shore will border the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll need to watch out for wildlife. Jellyfish and sharks can hurt dogs as well as people, so keep a close eye on your pet in these waters. You’re also more likely to encounter strong ocean currents and riptides. These can disorient your dog while swimming and lead to accidents. Since surfers love to chase these waves, you’ll need to keep your dog as far away from them as possible.

Don’t assume your dog can swim

Many dogs love swimming and are very good at it–sometimes better than their humans! However, you can’t just assume that your dog can swim. Some breeds have a face and nose shape, bone structure, or weight distribution that make it almost impossible to swim well. A few breeds that are notoriously bad swimmers include:

• Bulldogs

• Pugs

• Basset Hounds

• Dachshunds

• Boxers 

• Corgis

Even if your dog can swim, they may be at risk of getting swept away by strong currents–or even injured by watercrafts. How can you keep your dog safe in the water? Purchasing a life vest for your dog is a good first step. It’s also important to monitor your dog closely while they’re in the water. Avoid taking your dog swimming when there are too many other people or distractions around. It’s also a good idea to keep your dog’s leash on, at least in the beginning.

Take safety precautions after your dog leaves the water

Once your dog is done swimming for the day, you’ll need to do some aftercare. Steps to take include:

• Rinse your dog’s coat with fresh water

• Clean your dog’s ears out and dry them carefully

• Provide fresh drinking water to keep your dog hydrated

• Check your dog’s coat for any foreign materials

Make sure your dog is properly trained before visiting the beach

The sights and sounds of a Long Island beach can be overstimulating for dogs. If your dog is skittish or aggressive around other dogs or people, you may want to avoid the beach unless you can find a quiet time to visit with no one else around. If you can’t trust your dog to come when you call, you could also run into trouble at the beach. It’s easy for dogs to get lost while chasing down something interesting they spot in the sand. 

Your dog also needs to be trained to stop a particular behavior when you say no. If you see your dog drinking ocean water or eating sea creatures (dead or alive), you need to be able to stop your dog quickly by giving verbal commands.

Protect your dog from the sun’s rays

Just like humans, dogs are sensitive to UV rays and to summer heat. You may want to avoid visiting the beach during the hottest time of day–your dog will be more comfortable that way. If your dog is panting, acting confused, or making unusual sounds when they breathe, they could be overheating. If you don’t intervene, your dog can suffer heat stroke or death from getting too hot. Get your dog to a cooler place and apply cool water as fast as possible.

To protect your dog from sunburn, be sure to provide shade, like a beach umbrella, where your dog can rest. Also apply sunscreen that’s formulated for dogs. Focus on areas that don’t have much fur, like your dog’s nose. If the sand feels hot on your feet, it may also be bothering your dog. Make sure to bring foot coverings for your dog’s paws if needed.

Give your dog the best summer ever with Dan’s Pet Care!

It sometimes takes a village to care for a dog. If you and your dog need some extra help this summer, Call Dan’s Pet Care today at (516) 551-1613. As the top pet care service in the Long Island and Brooklyn area, we can help make sure your dog has the support, companionship and care they need to thrive. Whether you need dog walking, pooper scooper services, training, pet sitting, grooming, or other pet care services, our fully trained professionals have got you covered.