Sunshine, surf and sand are heaven for our four-legged friends. But before you and Lulu head for the beach – or the park – remember the following:

•  A little sunblock on your dog’s snout and ears will help protect him from the sun.
• Take along an umbrella for shelter from the heat of the day.
• Always take along water and a drinking bowl.
• Take particular care of older dogs and breeds such as bulldogs that overheat easily and struggle to breathe.
• Don’t allow your dog to swim at high tide or after heavy rains, and keep an eye open for cross-currents – you’ll usually see a sandy stream in the water – to prevent them from being swept out to sea.
• Familiarise yourself with the rules: Dogs are banned on some beaches, only allowed on leashes on others, and can run free on only a limited number of beaches.
• Be prepared for hostile encounters with other dogs; carry a can or plastic bottle filled with pebbles and shake it to deter aggressive dogs.
• Don’t forget that all-important poop-scoop!

SUNSTROKE 
If you suspect your dog has sunstroke, get him out of the sun immediately. Cool him down with cold, but not ice-cold water. At the beach, you can immerse him in the sea. Use icepacks and cold towels on his head, neck and chest. As soon as his condition improves, allow him to drink water and lick ice cubes. Serious sunstroke can result in a coma, brain damage or even death, so get your dog to a vet as soon as you can.

Signs Of Heatstroke include intense, rapid panting, wide eyes, salivating, staggering and weakness. Advanced heatstroke victims will collapse and become unconscious and the gums will appear pale and dry.

Pssst! Put a shower cap in your pocket – it’s a great makeshift water bowl when you and your dog go walking and there’s a tap en route.

Source: Dailyfix staffer