What do I bring to the beach for my dog?
Not sure what to bring on a beach trip with your fur-ever friend? We've got you covered.
For first timers to experienced beach goers, this is the guide for you!
As a dog mom who works for Beach Patrol, spending 10+ hours a day on the beach, I could only hope Lilly would have a love for the ocean like I do. Every beach trip has been crucial to her development in a sense that it has helped form who she is today. I'll share with you items to bring for yourself and your pup, to ensure a successful and happy beach trip. Of course you can throw things in a bag before heading out, but what if you run in to that one instance that you weren't prepared for? Been there done that. This guide will in hopes keep you and your pup protected for a fun filled adventure. As you can see, Lilly literally lives her best life on the beach. With so many things on her to-do list when we step foot onto the beach, its always a good idea to double check your beach bag before you leave to ensure a happy time.
What do I bring to the beach for my dog?
Packing for you pup can be as easy as 1, 2, 3.
Your pups safety is #1 on the list. Any adventure whether its the first or 50th, will always be more enjoyable when you're prepared. For starters, make sure you are okay with leaving the beach if your dog doesn't feel comfortable. Also take into account the sounds, sights and
surroundings your dog will be experiencing if its their first time. Next will be a life vest, with or without a handle is fine but we find having a handle creates for easy handling in certain situations. A portable water bowl/bottle, your pup will get thirsty & its best to keep them from drinking ocean water. Consuming large amounts of ocean water (salt water) can cause vomiting, diarrhea and also dehydration so that is key to remembering! Fresh drinking water, fresh drinking water, fresh drinking water. Your pup may stick their sandy paws in the bowl, or tip it over, it is best to have a nice supply of water on hand for yourself as well. Sunscreen, a hat, and UV protection is very important when spending 30+minutes to hours on the beach. You must protect your skin from the harmful rays, you'll thank yourself in the long run. A long lead/leash to keep your dog safe if their are dogs off leash or you are unfamiliar with the area, unless you are comfortable knowing your pup is safe off-leash. Toys ( preferably toys made to float ) are a must if you are trying to burn some energy! Treats are great to bring and use that time to do training activities in a different environment. Can't forget multiple* Poo bags. The zoomies can lead to your pup having to go, and you don't want to be that person who doesn't pick it up. Leave the beach how you found it. Dog First Aid kit is always a good idea to keep handy incase of an emergency. An Absorbent towel will help you in the long run, removing excess sand while drying those hard to reach places. See photo for what you're NOT supposed to do at the beach.
A list of our exacts or close to's.
Our life vest is a cute one for shark lovers like us. This vest I got specifically for boating and deep water adventures. It has a sturdy handle easy grabbing during any situation. The fin is removable while the vest has multiple straps to ensure your pup is taken care of.
This Ruff Barkbowl portable bowl is our favorite. With multiple colors available and easy to clean, this bowl holds 16 fluid ounces and is collapsable to fit in small pockets. The sand/mud/dirt rinses off clean and its ready to use again in seconds.
Lilly is more toy driven at the beach but when I do take advantage of the situation and want to train outside her normal environment, I use Mini Zuke's treats. Her fav of course peanut butter are easy to give out while on the move.
What I don't ever pack is a first aid kit... I have a few things on hand along the lines of antiseptic pads, iodine prep pads, roller gauze & 4x4 pads all thanks to work so I consider that my work-made first aid kit.
Long lead/leash is the level were at during our adventures. Our beaches our crowded lately with tourist season so I like to keep her close to me at all times.
Lilly goes nuts for this Chuck it toy. We ONLY bing this toy out when we will be around water for her to retrieve it. This toy is not intended for chewing purposes. There are a few negative reviews of this toy being torn apart, so keep in mind this toy is for floating and retrieving activites.
As for an absorbent towel, we use a microfiber towel to get off the excess sand and try to dry behind the ears and arm pits as their prone to hot spots. After that we use old towels we have lying around that are now specifically for drying miss Lilly.
**Click individual photo for links to product
Looks like you're ready..
..To embark on your beach trip adventure with your furever friend and feel confident doing it. Always take into consideration there may be those people on the beach, at the park or even in the neighborhood who will have their dogs off leash or not have full control. Be mindful of your surroundings and how to positively react in certain situations. For Lilly, core memories have been created on the beach. Endless holes to dig, more birds than she's ever seen, and a giant ocean to swim in, this is her heaven on earth. It's important to take time and do your research if you are taking an adventure in a new area. Scope out reviews online, dog rules on the beach ( At the moment dogs can not be on the beach between the hours of 10AM-5PM on Hilton Head Island,SC ) , restrooms, parking lots and keeping a method of self defense on your person is always recommended. As always, tell a family member or friend if you are adventuring alone so someone knows where you and the pup are. Bring Fido is also a nice recommendation to help you find dog friendly places, hotels, activities and adventures near you or if you want to find a mini adventure on a trip then this is your go-to!
