I’m a vet – urgent warning over hidden dangers to dogs found on UK beaches
EXPERTS have warned of a hidden danger to dogs that can be found lurking on UK beaches.
Taking your dog for a walk on the beach this summer might seem like a good idea especially as the UK is set for warm weather.
But vets have warned that many owners may be unaware of the potential dangers that might be found in the sand.
Some of the harmful things include seawater, seaweed, palm oil, jellyfish and dead crabs.
One type of seaweed, known as dead man's fingers - is highly toxic to dogs.
If eaten by dogs, it can attack the nervous system and lead to convulsions and death by asphyxia within hours.
read more news
Other types of seaweed can cause stomach upsets if dogs consume too much of it.
Another thing to avoid is palm oil, which can sometimes wash up on beaches.
While not fatal for humans, it can be toxic and sometimes fatal for dogs.
Palm oil has a distinctive smell and is semi-sold and waxy in appearance, and can lead to diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration and intestinal blockages in dogs.
Most read in The Sun
Ingesting seawater in large amounts can also be dangerous for dogs.
While a few mouthfuls can cause an upset stomach, large amounts can draw water from the blood into the intestines leading to diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration.
Other things to keep your dog away from include shellfish and crabs, which may contain intestinal parasites.
The hardness of shells can also lead to choking or internal obstruction.
Jellyfish, even when dead, can cause stomach upset.
Vet Abbey Taylor told the : “Seaweed and washed up sea creatures are tempting to dogs, but can cause sickness and diarrhoea. Eating sand can cause a blockage in the gut.
“Seawater causes sickness in dogs due to its salt content and can contain bacteria and parasites.
“Salt drying on dog’s skin can cause irritation and severe itching. Owners should carry fresh water for their dogs to drink and to rinse their coats after swimming in the sea.
“Always keep dogs in sight while they are swimming in the sea, and using dog life jackets can keep dogs afloat and safe from drowning. Owners should also refrain from throwing balls or toys into the sea when it is rough.”
