If you live near or regularly visit an ocean beach, you've seen dogs exuberantly race in huge circles, kick up sand, scatter shore birds and pounce on the elusive sea-foam. Before you head to the sea with your pooch, be aware of some dangers. Some public beaches allow dogs, but many popular spots forbid them, especially swimming beaches. There are good reasons for these restrictive bans. As a responsible dog owner, you must respect such laws and regulations.
Dogs do best at beaches that are empty.
Even if your beach destination allows dogs, if there are people around, keep yours under control at all times. It's hard to understand, but some folks don't want to share their holiday with dogs. Of concern here is the transmission of diseases from pets to people, primarily parasitic diseases. Sadly, such individuals are hopelessly outnumbered by the rest, who see no harm in letting their dogs use the beach as a huge, canine litter box. A few hours, or 1 tide change, is not sufficient.