A day of fun at the beach should include the entire family. When you bring your dog along to enjoy the surf and sand, you give them the opportunity to play and discover new sights and smells. Wherever you go, especially in public areas, it’s important to take steps to ensure everybody has a great time. Abiding by a few simple steps for your dog’s happiness and safety can help make the day memorable, in a good way.

Before you load the kids and the pup into the car, prepare for your beach vacation to keep it pet-friendly.

Choose the right beach. Laws regarding dogs on the beach vary according to where you live. In Virginia Beach, where you’ll find two of our physical stores, dogs are welcome to run and swim anywhere in the off-season, and in designated areas over the summer. It’s important to choose the right beach for your family, especially if you plan to visit a populated area, so your dog behaves well.

If you find your pet acts skittish toward strangers and other dogs, you should seek out a secluded area where they have room to play and feel safe. Bring a leash, too, in the event you need to keep your dog close. Your dog may be anxious to explore new surroundings, but you definitely don’t want to spoil another family’s outing should your pet abscond with somebody else’s towel or sand pail!

Bring fresh water and treats. It’s inevitable your dog will lap up some saltwater if they go swimming. While a few drops here or there won’t hurt, excessive intake can result in stomach problems and severe illness. Have fresh water and a travel bowl handy so your pet stays hydrated. Also offer a few treats during your beach stay to tempt them away from anything on the beach that looks edible but isn’t!

Provide a shady spot and protection. Like humans, dogs need time to rest in the shade while at the beach. Bring an umbrella or beach tent and call in your pet to sit out the waves for about fifteen minutes a stretch. Don’t assume, either, that your dog’s fur protects them from sun damage. Use a sun shield formulated for dogs (Bio-Groom Mink Oil, for one) and apply it liberally before hitting the beach.

Clean up afterward. It’s nice to feel the sand between your toes and the saltwater on your skin, but they’re not the best souvenirs to bring home. When the family’s ready to pack up for the day, it’s time to clean. Check your dog’s paws, snout and eyes for excess sea water and sand, and rinse off their fur with fresh water. If there’s no shower area near your part of the beach, bring some extra bottled water. Loose sand, if stuck in places, can cause irritation.

Did we mention to pack waste bags? If your dog leaves something behind on the shore that shouldn’t be there, scoop it up.

Enjoy the beach this summer. Remember you can shop Care-A-Lot Pet Supply for all the clean up accessories and dog toys and treats you need for a fun day by the ocean.