Is Hastings beach safe for dogs?

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dreamhack
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Joined: Tue Mar 11, 2014 3:32 pm

Re: Is Hastings beach safe for dogs?

Postby dreamhack » Tue Jun 10, 2014 6:40 am

...No idea why I or my username (seriously?) is under attack here.

I was curious as to if Hastings sea is safe for dogs (i.e. not carrying anything that could infect them). Maybe it is a strange question, as I do see people walk their dogs along the seafront, but I'm new to dog ownership and just wanted to be sure of something that probably seems obvious to others, lol. Just thought I'd be on the safe side and ask. Kinda wish I hadn't now.

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dreamhack
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Joined: Tue Mar 11, 2014 3:32 pm

Re: Is Hastings beach safe for dogs?

Postby dreamhack » Tue Jun 10, 2014 6:46 am

Technique wrote:Hi dreamhack,

I have two dogs - and whilst we go on the 'little beach at the end of the car park, the more commercial parts nearer the funfair are dog free zones at certain times of the year. We prefer to go over to Winchelsea beach, where only the most commercial parts are dog free zones. It is also fairly shallow for a good distance - and when the tide is out it is sandy; less places to disguise broken bottles, fishhooks and other rubbish left behind by the non-canine litterers

Please ignore the 'haters' on here; there are more irresponsible drinkers, smokers, picnic'rs and fishermen abandoning their potentially harmful leavings than dogs!


Thanks Technique! :)

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Derek Jempson
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Re: Is Hastings beach safe for dogs?

Postby Derek Jempson » Tue Jun 10, 2014 7:02 am

Unfortunately in public forums such as this, the most innocent and harmless enquiry can be hijacked and turned into a platform for airing pet grievances. For example, a language purist might accuse me of using mixed metaphors in this post. Someone else might then accuse the language purist of over-reaction and the insults start flying ("self-appointed language police"). Just ignore the noise and irrelevance and hope that you get some sensible replies among the nonsense.

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Richard
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Re: Is Hastings beach safe for dogs?

Postby Richard » Tue Jun 10, 2014 8:40 am

I don't think the original question should refer to Hastings beach in particular (bearing in mind the rules applying here).

Please conside the following:

1. Not all dogs can swim, the doggie paddle does not come naturally to every dog.
In fact, certain breeds like Corgis and Pugs don’t swim at all. Find some quiet water and give your dog a chance to show you if he can swim or not by encouraging him to follow you. Never throw your dog in the water and expect him to swim.

2. Drinking salt water is a bad idea. This is logical, and yet most dogs like to try to lap up the ocean. In the event you have more luck with your dog, pack plenty of water to keep you both hydrated.

3. Invest in a life vest. Waves, current, and rip tides can quickly exhaust your dog, and that can be deadly. Life vests made specially for dogs come in all sizes. When you’re making your selection, look for one that fastens at three points and has a handle on the back, making it easy for you to lift your dog out of the water.

4. Use sun screen. You’re not the only one that needs to be concerned with sun burn. Get a sun screen specially formulated for dogs and apply it to your dog’s nose and ears 30 minutes before hitting the beach.

5. Beware of submerged dangers. Sharp rocks, shells, coral, and jellyfish can injure your dog. And, because dogs often don’t indicate when they’re in pain, you’ll need to watch his body language and carefully check him for cuts and scrapes.

6. Calm water is best. Surf boards, jet skis, and big waves can frighten your dog. Find a quiet place to play with your pup, or locate a local dog beach were surfing and boating are not allowed.

7. Head for cover. The sun and the sand are fun, but it’s nice to have a place to take a break in the shade and out of the wind. Consider bringing an inexpensive tent to give you and your dog a comfortable place to relax.

8. Don’t overdo it. Running on sand is strenuous, so don’t expect your dog to be able to fetch as long as he might at the dog park. And, start slow, giving him time to warm up to avoid a muscle pull.

9. Cold water can hurt. Remember, if your dog has arthritis or other joint issues, swimming in cold water can irritate the condition. Stick to shallow water and bays where the water is warmer.

10. Rinse thoroughly. When you’re done playing, take time to rinse salt, sand, and microscopic organisms from your dog’s coat. Also, be sure to dry your dog’s ears as moisture in the ear canal can cause ear infections.


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