January is peak beach season, but it is also one of the busiest months for veterinary emergencies, according to Pet Insurance Australia. A fun summer outing along the coast can quickly turn into a costly trip to the vet if dog owners are not careful around beaches, lakes and waterways.
With families flocking to the beach during the hotter months, dogs are exposed to hazards including dehydration, heat stress, sand ingestion, sharp shells and blue-bottle stings. Pet Insurance Australia spokeswoman Nadia Crighton said risks are often underestimated. “A great day out can take a turn quickly, whether it’s a stung paw, dehydration, or sand ingestion,” she said.
One common danger is dehydration and saltwater sickness. Dogs pant heavily and may drink seawater while playing, leading to vomiting, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Sand ingestion is another serious issue; dogs that chase balls along the shoreline can swallow sand, causing sand impaction with symptoms like vomiting, lethargy and abdominal pain.
Hot sand can burn paw pads, and hazards such as blue-bottle jellyfish, razor shells and sea urchins can sting or cut dogs. Ms Crighton advised rinsing dogs after swimming and seeking vet care if a sting is suspected. Busy beaches also increase the risk of dogs becoming lost, so ensuring microchip information is up-to-date is crucial.
Freshwater spots pose risks too, including parasites like Giardia and leptospirosis. Secondary drowning, or ‘dry drowning’, can occur hours after swimming, with symptoms like persistent coughing, difficulty breathing and pale gums. “Secondary drowning is rare but very real,” Ms Crighton said. “Owners often don’t recognise the symptoms until they escalate.”
