Walking dogs on the beach and visiting the coast:
Lots of us love the beach and the UK coast, millions of us flock to the coast in the summer, but also make much use of our natural coastal landscape over the autumn and winter; particularly as many beaches lift their dog walking restrictions out of season.
As RNLI Ambassadors, we love to share coastal and water safety advice, particularly when dogs are involved!
Walking dogs on the beach can be an enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. Before heading out, it’s important to make sure that the beach you plan on visiting allows dogs. Many beaches have specific rules and regulations when it comes to dogs, such as requiring them to be on a lead at all times, or only allowing them in certain areas.
When walking your dog on the beach, make sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your pet. The sun and sand can be exhausting, even in the autumn or winter, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Additionally, be sure to clean up after your dog. Not only is it the responsible thing to do, but it also helps keep the beach clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Finally, be aware of other beachgoers and their dogs. Not all dogs are friendly, so it’s important to keep your dog under control and on a lead if necessary, ideally when getting near other dogs. By following these simple guidelines, you can have a fun and safe time walking your dog on the beach.
Many of our professional dog walkers walk their client dogs on beaches and along the coast, but they always take the right ‘lead’ in the safety of their doggy companions.
Walking dogs at the coast:
Walking dogs at the coast can be a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. The sea air and beautiful scenery can make for a refreshing and invigorating walk. However, it is important to remember some tips to ensure the safety and comfort of your dog.
Firstly, make sure your dog is on a lead at all times. Even if your dog is well-behaved and obedient, there may be other dogs or wildlife on the beach or coastal and clifftop paths that could cause your dog to become excited or mischievous. Keeping your dog on a lead also ensures that they do not run off or get lost.
Secondly, bring plenty of water for your dog. Walking on the beach can be hot and tiring, especially for dogs with thick fur coats. Make sure to bring a water bowl and plenty of fresh water for your furry friend to stay hydrated.
Lastly, be mindful of any beach regulations or rules. Some beaches may have specific areas designated for dogs, while others may have restrictions on when dogs are allowed on the beach. Always clean up after your dog and leave the beach as you found it.
Overall, walking your dog at the coast can be a wonderful experience as long as you take the necessary precautions and follow the rules. Enjoy the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and quality time with your furry friend!
Exercising your dog in the sea:
Exercising your dog in the sea can be a fun and refreshing activity for both you and your furry friend. However, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Firstly, make sure your dog is comfortable in the water before taking them into the sea. Start by introducing them to shallow water and gradually move a little deeper as they become more confident (but not too deep, and certainly not above human knee-height).
It’s also important to monitor your dog’s behaviour and energy levels throughout the activity to prevent exhaustion or dehydration. It’s vital that your dog doesn’t drink, lap or gulp sea water; this can be extremely harmful and may cause serious injury or death. If your dog shows any abnormal signs or behaviour, then consult your vet as soon as possible.
Secondly, be mindful of any potential hazards in the water, such as strong currents or marine life. Always keep your dog within sight and avoid areas with high waves or rip currents. Check the tide times and tide levels before venturing out on the beach. Additionally, consider investing in a life jacket for your dog to provide an extra layer of safety and buoyancy, certainly if you’re using a paddle board with doggy riding the waves with you, or on board a boat of any type.
Lastly, don’t forget to rinse your dog with fresh water after their swim to remove any salt or sand that may irritate their skin. With these precautions in mind, exercising your dog in the sea can be a fun and healthy way to bond with your pet and enjoy the great outdoors.