Few dogs love anything more than a day at the beach. The drive home with a wet, sandy dog is another story. Here is how to plan a beach day with your dog in Australia and keep your car clean on the way home.
Before you go: check the beach rules
Dog rules vary from beach to beach and council to council. Some beaches are off-leash all day, some only allow dogs early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and many patrolled beaches do not allow dogs at all. Check the local council website or signs at the beach entrance before you let your dog off the lead.
Beach day checklist
- Lead and harness
- Plenty of fresh water and a bowl (dogs should not drink seawater)
- Poo bags
- Shade, such as a beach umbrella or tent
- Two old towels
- A waterproof seat cover or hammock already fitted in the car
- A spray bottle or bottle of fresh water to rinse paws and coat
Keeping your dog safe at the beach
- Watch the heat. Sand can get hot enough to burn paws in summer. Go early or late in the day.
- Offer fresh water often. Drinking seawater can make dogs sick.
- Watch for rips and big waves, even with strong swimmers.
- Rinse off salt and sand before the drive home to stop itchy skin.
Getting a sandy dog home without wrecking your car
1. Fit the seat cover before you leave home
Trying to fit a cover with a wet dog waiting is no fun. A hammock-style cover protects the seat, the footwell and the back of the front seats.
2. Rinse and towel dry
Rinse your dog with fresh water at the beach shower or with a bottle, then towel dry, paying attention to paws and belly.
3. Shake out the sand
Let your dog have a good shake away from the car. Brush off any remaining sand once they are mostly dry.
4. Keep them in one place
A dog seat belt clipped to a harness keeps a wet dog on the covered area instead of wandering across the clean parts of the car.
5. Shake out the cover at home
Once the cover is dry, take it out and shake it. Wash it every few beach trips.
Already got sand and hair everywhere? Read how to get dog hair out of your car.
Choosing a seat cover for beach dogs
Beach trips are tough on seat covers. Look for genuinely waterproof fabric, a non-slip backing and door flaps. Our waterproof hammock with mesh window is the most protective option, and the Oxford seat cover is a tough, simple choice. Compare them in our seat cover guide.
FAQ
How do I keep sand out of my car after the beach?
Fit a waterproof seat cover before you go, rinse and towel dry your dog, let them shake well away from the car and keep them restrained on the cover.
Is it OK to leave my dog in the car while I pack up at the beach?
No. Cars heat up very quickly in the sun, even with the windows open. Keep your dog with you.
Should I wash my dog after the beach?
A fresh water rinse is a good idea to remove salt and sand, which can irritate the skin.