PetStore Hawaii

Information provided with permission by the Hawaiian Humane Society.
(Updated on May 18, 2006)

The Hawaiian Humane Society asks that you keep the following etiquette and safety tips in mind when visiting Oahu beaches.

Beach Etiquette for Dog Owners:

• Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
• Take your dog home at the first sign of unfriendly behavior.
• Puppies and dogs should be vaccinated and healthy.
• Keep close supervision of your dog.
• Dogs in estrus/heat should be left at home.
• Pick up and dispose of your dog’s waste.

How to keep your dog safe at the beach

• When taking your dog to the beach, make sure there is plenty of fresh water and shade.
• Dogs can get sunburned just like humans, so limit your dog’s exposure to the hot sun and apply a zinc-free sunblock to his ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside.
• Be careful not to let your dog spend too much time on hot sand or asphalt. Dogs can burn their feet just as easily as we can.
• Cool ocean water is very tempting to a dog. Don’t allow your dog to drink too much seawater. This can cause diarrhea or vomiting and quickly dehydrate them.
• Check with lifeguards for daily water conditions e.g. riptides. Dogs can be easy targets for jellyfish.
• Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs, but don’t let them overdo it. They will be using new muscles and may tire quickly.
• Running on a beach is strenuous exercise and a dog that is out of shape can easily pull a tendon or ligament. If your dog is out of shape, don’t encourage him to run on the sand.
• The beach can present many hazards for your dog. Things to watch our for include boats, fishhooks, dead fish, garbage, and broken glass. Lava rock can be very sharp and can easily cut your dog’s feet.