Washing your dog after the beach: sand, salt water and summer heat
Australian summers mean beaches, rivers and long walks, and a dog full of sand. A rinse after the beach helps your dog's skin and keeps the sand out of your car and home.
Why rinse after the beach
- Salt left in the coat dries out skin and can make your dog itchy.
- Sand stuck between toes and in the undercoat rubs the skin.
- Seaweed and other smells come off much easier on the same day.
Keep it quick in the heat
- Go early or late in the day. Metal tubs and outdoor bays get hot in the sun.
- Use lukewarm water, not hot.
- Rinse paws and belly first: on short coats that's often enough.
- Bring water for your dog to drink.
Find a dog wash on the way home
Search by suburb or use "Near me" to find the nearest dog wash, with opening hours and prices.