Pets traveling to the beach. 25 super hacks
By Arthus • Posted May 6 • 2024.
When we talk about pets, traditionally we always refer to dogs and cats, our companions for centuries. Nowadays, I know there are new pets at home, like rodents, iguanas, and I've even seen several TikToks with raccoons at home, as pets, by the way, such fun animals. So, I know there are new types of pets, but in this article, I'd like to focus on those that currently have permission from airlines to travel with us, even have their own seat, paid for of course. I'm referring, of course, to dogs and cats, beautiful creatures that make our life on this planet much more pleasant.
Well, nowadays we know that it's possible to buy a plane ticket for our pets and not necessarily send them as cargo in the airplane's luggage compartments but with us in the cabin. This, of course, depends on the rules of each airline, but they increasingly understand that, for those of us who have pets, we consider them as part of the family, not something that can be sent along with the suitcases. They're living beings, aware of themselves and their surroundings, as well as affectionate and protective of their own.
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If they're so good to us, the least we can do is be good to them and even more, because they rely entirely on us for their food, shelter, and protection, because, as I said, they're already part of our families. And last time I checked, families go on vacation together, so if we're going to the beach, why shouldn't we take our dogs or cats on that wonderful trip? So that they, as active members of the family, can enjoy, have fun, and create memories, just like the rest of us do. Of course, we must not forget that traveling with pets carries great responsibility. Not everyone likes dogs or cats, and some even have fears or allergies. In other words, we can't expect everyone on the trip or at the beach to be fond of the idea of interacting with animals. That's why we must be even more responsible and take care of our pets and their actions in an environment where there are people who are not familiar with them and who are not part of our family. Don't forget that.
Alright, here are the 25 super hacks for traveling with your pets to the beach, safely, fun, and responsibly with others. These hacks have been tested on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, I'm referring, of course, to the beaches of La Paz, Mexico, so they are tried and tested hacks on hot beaches, so you can rest assured when applying them.
25 super hacks for pet travel to the beach.
1. Find out the beach rules beforehand: It's essential to know the rules that apply to each beach we plan to visit. Although more and more beaches are pet-friendly, there are still some that are not or are very sensitive to complaints from people who don't like pets. So, it's better to make sure beforehand.
2. Basic commands: To not be a tyrant with your pet and for them to enjoy the beach freely, it's important that they understand basic commands like "come," "sit", "stay", among others. If not, it's better to have them on a leash long enough to avoid problems and keep them under control. In the case of cats, for those of us who love them, we know they understand commands but simply choose to ignore them, so it's always better to have them with their special cat harness.
3. Plenty of water: It can get very hot at the beach, and pets will undoubtedly engage in a lot of physical activity, making them thirsty. Don't forget to bring a jug of clean drinking water exclusively for them, along with a water bowl to serve it. It's important to mention here that with the water on the sand, it's possible for it to get dirty, so you have to keep an eye on making sure the water is always clean and fresh.
4. Avoid sunburn: There are sunscreens for pets; if you wear it to avoid discomfort, put it on them too, especially on their sensitive nose and ears. If the sand is very hot, put special dog shoes on them to protect their cute little paws. In the case of cats, it's better to carry them; they won't wear shoes.
5. Keep the leash handy: This point is important for a great, fun, and respectful experience at the beach with other people. I know there are dogs and cats better behaved than some people, but precisely for that reason, always have a long leash on hand and use it when necessary, especially when there are many people on the beach to prevent them from getting lost or causing problems.
6. Your pet, your waste: Don't forget to bring bags to pick up and properly dispose of your pet's waste. In the case of cats who think you brought them to the world's largest litter box, even more reason to stay on top of their waste and keep the beach clean. Don't forget a special shovel for this.
7. Don't forget their toys: Bring their favorite toys and buy some more for the beach; I assure you that both they and you will have fun.
8. Shade always available: I live in La Paz, Mexico, and I understand perfectly how shade can be so valuable on beach days. If it's important for us who are in swimwear, imagine for a dog or cat, who are covered in fur that keeps them warm on cold days, meaning it's like you going to the beach in a jacket. Always have shade available for them.
9. Have a blanket or towel ready for them: Not only do you need one to be comfortable on the sand, but they also do, so don't forget to bring one exclusively for them.
10. Keep your pet cool: You can check that they are drinking water and also wet them a little with fresh water to keep them refreshed on hot days.
11. Avoid peak hours: Always try to be with your pets on the beach during the days and hours when there are fewer people. Remember that pets can become stressed when surrounded by many people, especially strangers.
12. Gradually familiarize your pet with the water: Almost all dogs, on their first time at the beach, will jump into the ocean right away, excited and happy. However, there may be others who need to gradually get to know the sea in order to enjoy it. Never throw them into the water; that will only make them more fearful. The same goes for cats; let them build confidence and approach the water at their own pace.
13. Keep an eye on your pet: They are our responsibility, so we must always watch over them to prevent them from getting lost or bothering other people on the beach. Remember that even if our pet is harmless and friendly, not everyone likes dogs or cats.
14. Don't feed your pet near the water: This is something people shouldn't do either; the water can get dirty, or people can choke on a strong wave splashing them. The same applies to pets.
15. Bring a swimming leash: There are extendable leashes that allow your pet to swim freely while you keep them tethered. Consider this option to keep your pet even safer.
16. Keep their paws, ears, and nose clean: It's important to wash your dog's or cat's paws, nose, and ears after playing in the sand or swimming in the water to prevent irritations.
17. Keep your pet away from dangerous objects: This applies to both pets and people. Just as a child is not allowed to approach dangerous objects like broken glass or sharp rocks, neither should a dog or cat.
18. Consider other visitors: It's important to be considerate of other visitors; many people find excessive barking or a dog passing by jumping and showering them with sand very annoying. We know they're just having fun, but to avoid problems, it's always best to be considerate of other visitors. Plus, we don't want dogs or cats to be banned from beaches, right?
19. Respect for wildlife: Don't let your dog chase after a bird, scaring it away, or worse, let your cat eat it! It's important to respect local wildlife and marine biodiversity. Please don't let your cat indulge its hunting instincts.
20. Monitor the temperature of the sand: The sand can get very hot and hurt their paws. Make sure it's not too hot, or better yet, buy dog shoes to prevent discomfort. As mentioned before, in the case of cats, it's better to carry them until it's safe.
21. Don't forget your pet's temperament: If your dog or cat is shy or nervous, look for the quietest spot on the beach, with fewer people and less noise, so both you and they can have a good time. If your dog is aggressive, don't take them; you'll only be asking for trouble, possibly even legal trouble.
22. Bring a pet first aid kit: Nothing complicated, just a precaution in case they get injured or for any emergency.
23. Make sure they are properly identified: A collar with their name and contact information is always important.
24. Monitor playtime: If your pet meets others and starts playing, make sure they play calmly. Avoid escalating intensity to prevent a fight.
25. Snacks: Don't give them their regular meal, but keep them entertained with some pet snacks. If you're having snacks, they should have some of theirs too.
The most important thing of all is: Enjoy your time together. If you're going to the beach, it's to have fun and enjoy your time together on the beach, always keeping your pet safe and respecting other visitors, as well as the natural environment of the place. This way, more and more public places will be more than happy to welcome our beloved pets.
As I mentioned, I live in La Paz, Mexico, and I will always recommend it as a beautiful and perfect place to visit with your pets, with incredible beaches and landscapes that will create unforgettable moments in your mind and heart. While the previous tips apply to practically any beach, personally, I consider the best beaches for humans and pets to be here in La Paz. Check out this article just about that: La Paz Mexico Beaches.
In conclusion, for those of us who adore our pets and consider them furry members of our families, traveling with them is a must. When we travel to the beach, however, it's important to know what to do and how to do it while we're in these places with our pets. I hope these hacks are as useful for you as they have been for me. I would love to hear yours; please click on the Pinterest button to see more images and leave us your comments.
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Tastes of La Paz.