Pet Emergency & Referral Center
☀️ Sun Safety
Dogs can overheat quickly, even when they’re playing in water or resting in the shade. Know the signs of heat stroke:
Heavy panting
Sticky or dark red gums/tongue
Staggering or stumbling
Seizures or unresponsiveness
🚨 Heat stroke is a medical emergency!
While heading to the vet:
Offer ice cubes to lick
Quickly wet your pet’s paws and head with cool,
not cold water
Do not put your pet in cold water or cool below 103°F
Never leave your pet in a parked car—even with the windows cracked!
🏖️ Sand Hazards
Ingesting sand (intentionally or by accident) can lead to sand impaction, a serious condition causing:
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Dehydration
🧴 Watch out for other ingestion dangers like:
Jellyfish
Broken glass or shells
Fish hooks
Trash
Hot sand can burn paw pads. Test it with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Also monitor paws for blisters, swelling, or cuts.
🌊 Surf Safety
Saltwater is toxic to dogs! Just a few cups can be deadly. Signs of saltwater toxicity may show within minutes to hours and include:
Vomiting & diarrhea
Disorientation or stumbling
Seizures
Collapse or unresponsiveness
Dogs often ingest saltwater while swimming or retrieving toys. If you suspect saltwater poisoning, get veterinary care immediately.
Drowning risk: Not all dogs are strong swimmers. Use a pet life jacket and supervise your pup closely.
🐾 A safe beach day is a fun beach day! Stay alert, pack fresh water, and know when it’s time to take a break.
