Vet's warning anyone in the UK walking dogs by the coast this weekend

A vet has advised dog owners to be vigilant this weekend if they are walking their pets by the coast. As a heatwave continues in the UK, many dog owners may opt for a walk along the beach with their furry friends. However, there are certain things to be cautious about when bringing your dog to the coast. Many dogs love the beach and will get a thrill out of running around in the sand and even jumping into the sea.

But to make sure that you keep them safe while they are playing by the seaside, it's important to know what to look out for. A vet has issued a beach safety warning for dog owners this weekend, as temperatures are set to reach the high 20s and 30s in parts of the country. Dr Rebecca MacMillan revealed the six most common beach hazards that could send your pet from seaside to surgery. "Taking your dog to the beach should be a fun experience, but it is wise to be aware of a few potential risks," she said.

The first thing that dog owners need to look out for when on the beach is sand and saltwater consumption. Your dog might be tempted to drink seawater, which can actually dehydrate it. "Impaction is also another risk for dogs that make a habit of ingesting sand," Dr MacMillan said. "Too much sand in your pet's digestive tract can cause a painful obstruction, which may require surgery."

She also warns dog owners to think about their pet's swimming abilities, as strong waves and currents can pose a great threat to them. "If your pet is elderly, young, or debilitated, then it is not sensible to allow them to swim out of their depth," she warns.

Dogs are also at risk of heatstroke when temperatures reach near or above 30C. If you want to bring your dog to the beach this weekend, it's sensible to do so early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures ease.

Dr MacMillan suggests that dog owners also be aware of marine life. "Jellyfish stings can occur in the water or on land, especially if your pet is the inquisitive type. Stings can range in severity from mild irritations to anaphylactic reactions."

She lists unsupervised dining as another danger to dogs on the beach. She warned: "Barbecues are common at the beach in the summer months, so ensure your pet doesn't scavenge around people's leftovers or litter. While people should dispose of hot coals responsibly, there are regular stories of people or animals burning themselves on discarded barbecue embers."

Finally, holes in the sand can pose a threat to dogs. Dr MacMillan explained: "Large holes dug in the sand can present a major trip hazard for dogs running or chasing toys on the beach. Your dog may not be expecting a hole as they are running at speed and could fall and injure themselves."