Ah, the beach! Sun, sand, and waves – it’s a doggy paradise. But just like us, our canine companions need protection from the sun’s harmful rays and the after-effects of saltwater exposure. At Canine Couture Grooming, we want to ensure your pup has the safest and most enjoyable beach trip possible. So, let’s dive into dog-friendly sunscreen and post-beach ear care!
Dog-Friendly Sunscreen and Post-Beach Ear Care Tips
Sunscreen Savvy: Keeping Your Pup From Burning Up
Regular sunscreen is a big no-no for dogs. Zinc oxide and other ingredients in human sunscreens can be toxic if ingested. Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic dog-specific sunscreens available!
Here’s what to look for:
- SPF 30 or higher: Using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher provides broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays.
- Made for dogs: Look for labels identifying “dog-friendly” or “pet-safe.”
- Water-resistant: It’s essential for water-loving pups!
- Oxybenzone-free: This ingredient can irritate some dogs’ skin.
Sunscreen Application Tips
- Apply liberally: Remember areas like the nose, ears, and around the eyes (avoiding contact with the eyes).
- Reapply often: It’s vital to reapply, especially after swimming, toweling off, or every two hours of sun exposure.
- Test for allergies: Apply a small amount to your dog’s inner thigh first and wait 24 hours to check for any irritation.
Post-Beach Ear Care: Flushing Out the Fun
Salty ocean water can irritate your dog’s ears, leading to infection. Here’s how to properly clean them after a beach trip:
- Gather your supplies: Gentle ear cleaner (veterinarian-recommended is best), cotton balls, gauze, and a towel.
- Dry those ears: Use a towel to remove excess water from the outer ear gently.
- Cleaning time: Apply the recommended amount of ear cleaner to a cotton ball or gauze. Never insert anything into the ear canal; clean only the outer ear flap.
- Repeat: Use a fresh cotton ball or gauze for each ear and clean until there’s no debris.
- Dry thoroughly: Use a dry towel or gauze to remove any remaining moisture once clean.
Bonus Tip: If your dog loves shaking their head after swimming, consider using a doggy ear-drying solution after cleaning.
We’re Happy to Help!
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your doggy has a fun-filled and safe beach adventure! Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at Canine Couture Grooming for more personalized recommendations on sunscreens or ear care products and services. We offer grooming, washing, and touch-up services to meet your dog’s needs. Call us at (678) 947-6556 or message us online.
Happy splashing!
