Pet-etiquette: The Code of Behavior You Need to Adhere to When Taking Your Dog to the Beach

When many people think about summer, they imagine a beautiful, sunny day at the beach. The beach is always a summertime must and who better to accompany you there than your beloved canine companion! However, before you suit up and grab your towels and umbrella there are a few things related to pet etiquette you should consider.

To Leash or Not to Leash.

Be aware of the rules in effect at the dog beach or dog park you plan on going to. It is essential that you are aware of any specific rules the beach may have. All regulations vary. In some places, pets are only allowed on the beach during off-season while others allow companion animals during only the morning or the evenings.

Some dog beaches may require that your pet remain on a leash at all times. Others are a bit more lenient and will allow your pet to roam providing they stay under effective control. It is important that you know what is required of you when bringing your pet along to a dog beach or dog park. One of the main reasons that dogs are banned from many beaches is their owner’s disregard for leash laws. So find out if your favorite beach requires that your pup be leashed, and if so be sure to follow the rules by keeping your canine on a tough and durable leash.

Many beaches and dog parks not only require leashes but also city licenses, proper identification, and up to date vaccinations, prior to stepping foot onto a beach. Remember that your pet can easily become separated from you and in a fear-based situation may run away. If your pet has a collar and tags, it is far easier for someone to find out who his or her owner is and return them to you quickly and safely.

Recall.

Make sure your pet knows simple commands and can follow them easily. If there is anything that your pet should know it is how to come back to you when called. It’s also important that your pet is accustomed to basic orders such as sit, come, stay, and leave it. If you’re concerned that your pet doesn’t have the training necessary to heed these commands then it is highly recommended that your companion have some training classes and socialisation prior to going to a busy, distracting place like the beach.

Mindfulness is Key.

Be conscientious of others. Many dog beaches are usually open to everyone, and that means you must be aware of the other people and dogs around you. Keep in mind that aggressive behavior, constant barking, and disobedience are all unwelcome nuisances in a public environment. Remember that every pet, no matter how well-behaved at home, has the capacity to exhibit a different personality when introduced to a new place. Pets may become fearful or overly excited which may make them forget their manners.

Don’t allow your companion to run up to or jump on others. Also be sure to keep your distance if you’re walking your dog and another owner passes with their pet. Make sure you leash your canine as they pass other pets and keep them close to your side. It may seem like a great time for them to make a friend, but it is safer to keep pets that are unfamiliar separated from each other until you know for sure they will get along.

Most importantly, as a pet owner, it is your job to stay aware and keep your pet in your sight at all times so they do not cause others harm or get into any mischief.

Keep it Clean.

Always clean up after your pet and yourself. When taking your pet to the beach be sure to bring waste disposal bags. Do not leave your pet’s feces in the sand. A dog’s fecal matter is not biodegradable, so if your pet leaves a mess be sure to clean up after him rather than expecting the water to wash it away. Another thing to keep in mind is your pet’s health. If you’re aware that your pet has a zoonotic disease that is spread through fecal matter such as roundworms, hookworms, or giardia, you should keep your pet at home until they have a clear bill of health. These sorts of intestinal parasites can easily be transmitted to other pets and to humans so it is very important that you keep things sanitary.

Wildlife Matters.

Please make sure that you don’t allow your pet to pester the wildlife in the area. It is likely that your pet will come across the occasional crab or seagull while strolling on the beach. It seems harmless to let them play with other animals but some animals are protected. Have reverence for all of the creatures around you and respect their habitat by not allowing your pet to raid any areas which are inhabited by them.

Protect your Pet.

Above all, keep your canine companion safe. Make sure you provide your pet with fresh, clean drinking water and a shady spot at all times. Remember that rip-tides can be as dangerous for animals as they are for humans, so it is necessary that you keep an eye on your pet while they are in the water.

A Beach Day can be a Great Day.

Try not to get caught up in all of the rules, regulations, and requirements that are crucial for a beach tip with your pup. While it is highly important and essential for you to follow these rules of pet etiquette, it is also important that you have a good time. Go off, splash, and play with your closest canine but always be a considerate and responsible pet owner by following these six simple rules of pet-tiquette.