Dog owners planning on taking pet to beach in heatwave issued health warning

Britain is bracing itself for its fourth summer heatwave, with temperatures expected to soar past 34C across parts of the country this week. As households and their beloved pets flock to coastal areas seeking relief from the sweltering heat, vets are issuing urgent warnings for dog owners to exercise extreme vigilance.

The combination of blazing temperatures and standard seaside dangers could swiftly turn a pleasant beach day into an urgent trip to the emergency vet. With amber and yellow health alerts now in place, experts from TrustedHousesitters - the world's leading pet-sitting platform - are urging owners to be aware of the hidden dangers.

They've teamed up with veterinarian Dr Rebecca MacMillan to expose the six most common coastal threats that could send your pet from seaside joy straight to the surgery.

Dr MacMillan warns: "Taking your dog to the beach should be a fun experience, but it is wise to be aware of a few potential risks."

From salty dangers to sandy traps, here are the six seaside hazards every pet owner needs to know about - and why, during heatwaves, sometimes the smartest choice is staying at home.

1. Sand and saltwater ingestion

While dogs may enjoy a sip of seawater, this seemingly harmless activity could lead to a salt poisoning disaster. When a dog drinks saltwater, it can disrupt the body's electrolyte balance and cause dehydration.

Dr MacMillan explains: "Impaction is also another risk for dogs that make a habit of ingesting sand. Too much sand in your pet's digestive tract can cause a painful obstruction, which may require surgery."

2. Difficulty with strong currents and waves

Even the most accomplished doggy-paddlers can encounter difficulties when confronted with strong currents.

"Consider your dog's swimming capability. If your pet is elderly, young, or debilitated, then it is not sensible to allow them to swim out of their depth," MacMillan warns.

3. Heatstroke chaos

With the UK enduring another heatwave and temperatures climbing to dangerous heights, the threat of heatstroke has never been greater.

Dr MacMillan cautions: "Some breeds will be much more prone to heatstroke, including brachycephalic or flat-faced types like pugs and bulldogs, as well as large or giant breeds with thick coats."

Take precautions with pets in extreme heat, ensuring they're hydrated and adapting walk times to avoid the hottest temperatures - first thing in the morning and later in the evening is ideal to avoid the hottest sun.

When temperatures soar above 30C, consider whether a beach trip is necessary at all - the safest option may be to stay indoors with fans or air conditioning until the temperatures drop.

4. Mayhem with marine life

Our coastlines are teeming with potential hazards for pets, so it's crucial to keep a close eye on them during their adventures.

"Jellyfish stings can happen in the water or on land, particularly if your pet is naturally curious," warns MacMillan.

"Stings can vary from mild irritations to severe anaphylactic reactions."

If you suspect your dog has been stung, it's vital to seek veterinary advice immediately.

5. Unsupervised digging

While your dog might see themselves as the next canine Indiana Jones, unsupervised digging can reveal hidden dangers.

MacMillan cautions: "Barbecues are a common sight at the beach during the summer, so make sure your pet doesn't rummage through people's leftovers or rubbish.

"While individuals should responsibly dispose of hot coals, there are frequent reports of people or animals suffering burns from discarded barbecue embers."

Broken glass or sharp objects may also be hidden beneath the sand, so if your dog enjoys digging, ensure you're nearby to prevent any unexpected 'finds'.

6. Digging holes could cause havoc

It's not just what's buried in the sand that can pose a risk - the sand itself can be dangerous. "Large holes dug in the sand can be a significant trip hazard for dogs running or chasing toys on the beach," MacMillan points out.

"Your dog might not anticipate a hole while running at speed and could fall and hurt themselves."

If you or your dog digs a hole on the beach, remember to be considerate of other beach users and fill it back in before you depart.

When temperatures drop sufficiently to visit the coastline safely, pet owners and their beloved companions can still experience a wonderful seaside adventure - it's simply a matter of proper timing and thorough preparation.

Expert-endorsed advice for safe beach outings with your pet

• Keep hydrated: It's important to always carry a portable water bowl and plenty of fresh water for your dog
• Protect your pet from the sun: You should apply pet-friendly sunscreen on your dog's nose and ears to prevent sunburn
• Life jackets: For those whose pets love to swim, especially in areas with strong currents, consider a dog life jacket
• Cooling towels: Carrying a cooling towel will help regulate your dog's temperature during breaks
• Lead, collar, and microchip: Ensure your dog is on a lead when necessary and ensure their collar has updated ID tags. Also, verify that their microchip details are correct, so you can be reunited quickly if you're ever separated

During beach travels, never abandon your animal in a sweltering vehicle, not even briefly.

Schedule frequent stops during lengthy journeys and guarantee your companion remains protected and at ease throughout the trip.

With these safety measures considered, there's absolutely no barrier preventing you and your pet from experiencing a marvellous coastal getaway.

Angela Laws, Head of Community at TrustedHousesitters, states: "While a day at the beach can be a fantastic adventure for pets and owners alike, it's crucial to prioritise safety.

"During extreme weather like we're experiencing now, pet owners should be extra cautious and consider whether it's safe for their furry friends to be out at all.

"By being aware of potential hazards and taking simple precautions, we can ensure our pets enjoy the seaside as much as we do. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in creating wonderful memories for the whole family - two-legged and four-legged alike!".

The advice emerges following one individual's cautionary tale on Reddit about protecting animals during scorching conditions just two months prior.

They posted on the platform: "I met a veterinarian yesterday that worked in emergency care and she was depressed. She told me they had lost 6 dogs because of the heat in just one day."

The Reddit user further stated: "This was in the UK! I know the heat here is not as bad as in other countries but this happens because these dogs are not used to it so do consider it even if it doesn't feel 'that' hot to you."