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The sun is out, the day is stretching out before you, and your dog is full of summertime energy. What better way to enjoy a summer day than a trip to the beach with your four-legged best friend? Before you hit the sand, gear up with all the supplies your pooch will need.
Of course, you’ll need to pack the usual dog outing essentials: leash, poop bags, treats. But what about the beach-specific stuff you’ll want to have on hand? Here’s everything you need to pack for a beach day with your dog.
1. Sun protection
Dogs can get sunburned just like people, so plan ahead with something to protect delicate doggy noses and ears from UV/UBV rays. Epi-Pet sprayable sunscreen is a top pick among pet people because it’s pet-safe, easy to apply, and waterproof (though you should always re-apply after a swim).
2. Floating toy
Ruffwear Lunker Interactive Floating Toy
Keep your toy-obsessed dog busy at the beach with a floating toy that won’t disappear in the water. Ruffwear’s Lunker is made from buoyant, bright, recycled materials, ideal for playing fetch and tug by the shore. Floating disc toys and tennis balls also make for fun beachside play.
3. Absorbent pet towel
DII Bone Dry Ultra Absorbent Microfiber Pet Towel
If your dog is romping in the waves, you’ll want a way to dry them off quickly and effectively. That’s where a microfiber pet towel comes in. These lightweight, super-absorbent towels will quickly and effectively dry off your dog before she tracks water into the car at the end of the day (we can’t help you with the sand, though).
4. Portable food and water dishes
Keeping fresh water on hand keeps your dog cool and hydrated at the beach, and helps prevent heat stroke. And all that beach activity will work up an appetite, so it’s important to have food on hand to replenish! Lightweight, collapsible bowls are just right for tossing into your beach bag on the way out the door. This set is crafted of durable, waterproof, leak-proof material, and zips up for convenient storage.
5. Life jacket
Outward Hound Ripstop Life Jacket
If your dog loves the water but isn’t a strong swimmer, or if your beach day includes time on a boat, invest in a doggy life jacket for extra safety. Like the Outward Hound Ripstop life jacket, the best dog life jacket will be brightly-colored for visibility, and have a handle for easy assistance out of the water.
6. Dog first aid kit
Adventure Dog Series Me & My Dog Medical Kit
Hopefully, you won’t need it, but it’s a good idea to have a first aid kit on hand in case of minor injuries at the beach. The Adventure Dog Series “Me & My Dog” kit is a great pre-packed option to keep in the trunk of your car; it includes first aid essentials for canines and humans alike. Of course, you can always make an awesome first aid kit at home.
7. Bathing suit to show off that beach body
Casual Canine Maui Flowers Bikini
We admit it: dog bathing suits aren’t really on the must-pack list for beach days. But aren’t they cute? And doesn’t your beach dog deserve to make a fashion splash? There’s a dog swimsuit to suit all tastes, from itsy-bitsy teeny-weeny bikinis to cool board shorts . Just make sure to remove your dog’s clothing before they go in the water.
With a well-stocked beach bag, you and your dog are sure to have a blast at the beach!
