Dogs Trust and RNLI share tips to keep dogs safe at the beach

Last year the RNLI saved 164 dogs around the UK’s coastlines and so far this year has collected dogs from the waves, coastal ledges and those cut off by the tide. 

Aiming to reduce the number of incidents, Dogs Trust Evesham and the RNLI have published some guidance for dog owners to help their canine companions enjoy their time at the seaside safely this summer.

Most dog owners will be aware that extreme weather and heatwaves can be dangerous and sometimes even deadly for dogs.

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However, some might not know that exercising dogs in early summer temperatures as low as 21C can cause heatstroke in dogs.

Dogs are unable to regulate their body temperature in the same way as humans so extra care needs to be taken in hot weather.

If dogs get too hot and can’t reduce their body temperature enough, they can develop heatstroke which can be fatal.

Dogs Trust Evesham and RNLI share top tips for seaside success

If you’re happy that the temperature is right for an outing with your furry friend, Dogs Trust Evesham and the RNLI have shared the following advice.

Check if your dog is allowed on the beach

Check the beach you are going to allows dogs as some have a dog-free policy at certain times of the year and others have dog-free areas.

However, there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches across the UK.

Keep your dog on a lead

If you are close to cliff edges or fast-flowing water, make sure your dog is on a lead.

When you’re on a beach, you’ll need to keep your dog on a lead if they haven’t yet mastered the art of recall – long training leads will help your dog have freedom while staying safe.

Keep your dog on a lead if needed (Image: Getty Images)

Check the tide times

To avoid getting stranded, check the tide times and plan your trip accordingly before you head out.

Tide times and heights fluctuate throughout the month so an area that was accessible throughout the day last week may get completely cut off today. 

Check the sand temperature

If you’re heading to the beach, check the sand isn’t too hot for your dog.

Can you stand on it comfortably barefoot? If you can, it should be cool enough for them to stand on too.

Make shade and pack drinking water and treats

Provide shade and fresh drinking water all day.

Taking some treats with you could help deter your dog from picking up something they shouldn’t eat.

Don’t let your dog get sunburnt

Where possible, keep your dog out of direct sunlight and use pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of their skin like their ears and nose.

You can ask your vet for advice if needed.

Make sure your dog isn't eating or drinking anything they shouldn't be (Image: Getty Images)

Don’t allow your dog to drink seawater

Drinking seawater can cause sickness and saltwater poisoning.

Keep an eye on them to make sure they’re not eating anything they shouldn’t like seaweed or plastic.

If they do drink or eat things they shouldn’t, call a local vet.

Rinse your dog after a beach trip

Rinse any sand or seawater off your dog’s coat and paws with tap water to stop it gathering and causing irritation.

Don’t go after your dog if they get into difficulty

If your dog goes into the water, over a cliff edge or gets stuck in mud, don’t go after them.

Instead, move to a place your dog can get to you safely and call them.

If you’re worried about your dog, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

The RNLI treats stricken pets the same as it does humans and will always launch to assist if they can. 

Don’t leave your dog in the car alone

Leaving a dog alone in a hot car for just a few minutes can prove fatal so you must avoid doing it at all costs.

On a 22C day, the temperature inside a car could rise by 11C in just 10 minutes and as dogs can’t cool down the same way as humans, the heat can quickly become dangerous for them.

If you see a dog in a car in distress, the charity advises that members of the public call 999.

The RNLI will launch to help dogs if they can (Image: Getty Images)

Hannah Duerden, part of the Community Engagement Team at Dogs Trust, says: “Many dogs love to visit the beach, with the sea and the sand providing lots of enrichment and fun for them.

“However, as RNLI stats show, dogs can get into trouble on trips to the coast, so it’s important to take some basic steps to keep them safe, including keeping them on their leads near cliff tops, ensuring they have access to shade and fresh water and making sure the sand is not too hot for them to walk on. 

“But keeping our dogs safe at the coast starts before you even leave home. Always check the weather forecast, and if it’s too warm, stay at home. Heat stroke makes dogs very poorly, and in some cases can prove fatal.”

Lewis Arnold, Lifeboat Coxswain at RNLI Newhaven Lifeboat Station, said: “As a dog owner, I know how much people’s pets mean to them, so I understand what’s at stake when we are being called out to rescue a dog. 

“We will always launch the lifeboat if there is an animal in trouble on the coast, but there are a few things you can do to make sure it’s not yours that we are going to save.”

Arnold added: “If you are worried about your dog, call 999 and ask for the coastguard – don’t go after them and put yourself in danger.”