Summer is a time that invites you to enjoy the beach with the family. The dogs are one more of the house; and they also like to run around the shore, soak and play with the ball or Frisbee. But, in addition to knowing how to have fun with our friends, we must know and avoid the dangers of the sea for the frenchie.
The beach can be a perfect summer setting for the Frenchie to enjoy, as he will have the opportunity to run along the shore, swim and play in the water. However, not all dogs feel confident in the immensity of the sea. The dog that has never been to the beach or that has not been used to it since its puppy stage may be insecure, in a scenario that is unknown to it.
It is recommended to be patient until the dog gradually gets used to the beach and never force him to bathe or come into contact with the water, if the animal does not want to.
Healthy activities to enjoy with the frenchie on the beach
Each dog is different, and there are beach activities that some will like more than others. The owners are the ones who know their dogs best, so it is a matter of trying and experiencing what our friend likes to do the most on the beach. Some proposals are listed below:
– Walking and running along the seashore. The dog likes to walk along the seashore. The splashes in the water amuse him. Their owners can take advantage of the walk to play with the dog. The game of ball is a classic, which dogs usually like. Races and chases can also entertain the dog and also serve to exercise. If there are children in the family, they will especially enjoy racing with the dog.
– Bathing and swimming. Some dogs like to bathe in the sea (not all of them). Dogs are not fast swimmers, but they are strong swimmers. Although they can get tired if they spend time in an area of the sea where there is a lot of depth, in general, the dog likes to take a quick bath and then stay on the shore. Baths that last a long time are not recommended for the dog. Short baths are more advisable. Although certain breeds are very well adapted to water, the dog is not an aquatic animal that handles well in this environment.
– Play with the ‘frisbee. The throwing of the Frisbee by the owner, which the dog picks up, is an activity that is fashionable and entertains many dogs. It is an exercise that also lends itself (like ball games) to interaction between owners and their dogs. And that, therefore, serves to strengthen emotional ties between them.
The dangers of the sea for the French bulldog
Risk of drowning of the dog on the beach. Our friend, like people, can drown. The marine currents, or the waves, can drag the animal towards the interior of the sea, and prevent it from returning to the shore. For this reason, close monitoring of the dog by the owners is advisable. In any case, it is recommended that the dog does not swim too far, to avoid accidents.
Heat stroke
The fact that the dog can be bathed, and soaked, does not mean that he cannot suffer from heat stroke. All precaution is little to avoid these deadly rises in temperature. On the beach, you can not miss the umbrella and fresh water. It is also not recommended that the dog perform physical activity (games, races) during the hottest hours. It is advisable to stay in the shade and bathe or get wet to stay cool.
Jellyfish stings
A dog that bathes in the sea runs the same risks as any bather. Be careful with jellyfish. In case there is a risk of bite, it is advisable not to let the dog bathe. You can always run around and play on the seashore to cool off. In the event that the dog suffers a jellyfish sting, we must go to the veterinarian to apply a treatment that minimizes the allergic reaction to the poison.
Dog sunburn on the beach
Dogs can also get sunburn. This is the case of those with light-colored hair and a pinkish nose. They are more at risk of sunburn. The sunscreen creams that people use are also suitable for dogs. They are applied to the nose and legs, when the animal has part of the skin exposed (without hair), as well as in the area adjacent to the nails.
Sea salt also dries out the bulldog’s skin
After an intense day at the beach, it is advisable to remove the remains of saltpeter that remain in the hair, and on the skin, of the dog. Sea salt dries out the animal’s skin, and it should be removed by rinsing with clean water.
On the other hand, if the dog wears an antiparasitic collar, keep in mind that it is advisable to remove it before bathing. Collars that repel fleas and ticks lose their properties when wet with seawater.