With all the stress of trying to get yourself, the kids and the car all packed for your trip to the beach you may be forgetting some important items that you need to take for your dog. Thankfully there are a number of human supplies that can also double as dog supplies, but it is still a great idea to have at least a few items brought along specifically for your pet.
One of the most important things to consider is that dogs have a harder time regulating their body temperature than humans, especially in very hot weather. If you have a dog that has a short nose, such as a Pug, Boxer, Pomeranian, Boston Terrier or even a Lhaso Apso you need to be particularly careful about having a cooler place where these dogs can go to get out of the direct sun and heat. A large beach umbrella is highly recommended if the beach you are going to doesn't have natural shade in the form of trees or covered areas where dogs are welcome. Without an ability for these types of dogs or even the double coated breeds with their thick coats to get out of the sun you run the risk of your dog becoming very ill an possibly even reaching a life threatening point because of heat stroke.
Another important consideration is to keep in mind is that your dog is going to need lots of fresh water for their day at the beach. Even at fresh water lakes it is highly recommended that owners bring their own water for their dogs rather than allow the dogs to drink the lake water. Some facilities and parks have treated water for human consumption that will be great for giving to your dogs. The reason that lake water is not recommended is that there are several different microorganisms that can be present in the water that may cause mild to serious health conditions for your dog. For most healthy dogs these bacterial or parasitic organisms will cause diarrhea and other digestive disorders, but for dogs that are already ill, pregnant or immune compromised the additional stress on the body can be very serious and even life threatening. Bringing your own water and trying, as much as possible, to prevent your dog from drinking the water at the park is the best option.
Besides water your dog is probably going to work up quite an appetite with all the running and swimming he or she is likely to do. Packing enough dog food to get through the day plus a few treats for good behavior is a great way to reinforce your dog's attitude at the beach. Food and treats can be packed in zip lock plastic bags that keep the food dry and fresh but also are easy to carry and fit into beach totes and backpacks. Avoid bringing any types of raw meats, cheeses or other perishable products to the beach unless you are also bringing a cooler. While dogs can tolerate a lot more than humans, raw foods that are kept at high temperatures, even for short periods of time are going to develop bacteria. Some bacteria won't harm your dog but any dog eating hot raw foods could potentially develop digestive problems that could ruin your day and cut your vacation short.
A first aid kit for your dog is a must to deal with those emergencies that may just crop up. Typically the contents of your own first aid kit for yourself or your kids will also work for your dog, but you may want to add a few specific items.
If your first aid kit doesn't already contain tweezers, make sure to add a good pair that has a fairly long reach. These may be necessary for removing items lodged in the throat or in the back teeth. In addition tweezers may be essential in taking debris out of wounds or cuts in the feet or elsewhere on the body. A small bottle of hydrogen peroxide can be used to flush out wounds or to treat minor cuts. Antiseptic spray with scarlet oil can be ideal for minor cuts and abrasions but should not be used with open wounds, they should be flushed out with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution and water or plain, clean water. Longer bandages for wrapping the limbs or body are essential, plus a large towel or a sheet if you have to immobilize the dog. Large beach towels will work very well for most dogs. A very handy additional supply to have is a roll of Vet Wrap, which is better than using a standard tensor or elastic bandage since it doesn't keep tightening and is easy to remove.
Be sure to bring some toys along for your dog to play with. Most dogs would rather play with their own toys or ball rather than picking up a stick, plus this is much healthier. Old toys and sticks along the beach may have been mouthed by other dogs and may be contaminated. Toys from home will be in good condition and safe for your dog. Floating toys are terrific for retrievers and dogs that love to get into the water. If you are planning on having your dog go into the water be sure to bring along fresh water to rinse your dog off or make sure there is a rinsing area at the beach or lake. Even if you aren't in salt water it is still a good idea to give your dog a good rinse before they get into your vehicle.
Towels or a blanket to put down on the vehicles upholstery will help to keep your car cleaner and neater. If you have a safety harness or if your dog is crated you may not be able to use the blanket across the seat but you can put it down directly where the dog is going to be seated.
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