Beach dog dangers flagged up
AVETERINARY practice in Maghull has launched a Baywatch campaign to prevent dog owners having to send out SOS distress calls during the summer holidays.
Parker and Crowther Vets, based on Liverpool Road South in Maghull, is warning dog walkers of the dangers facing their pets while out walking and playing on the beach.
Sea water, seaweed, palm oil, jellyfish and dead crabs and sea birds washed up on the shore are among the hazards that can cause illness and injury or even kill pets.
Parker and Crowther Vets expects to see a number of dogs brought into their surgery with symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting and, in severe cases, liver failure, after eating something they shouldn’t on the beach.
The practice has now launched Baywatch, a summer campaign to warn owners to be extra vigilant when taking their ORMSKIRK MotorFest returns on Sunday, August 26 and organisers are looking for volunteer marshals to join in the fun and help make this wonderful event go smoothly.
Thousands of people are expected to enjoy the free motoring extravaganza, which is one of the North West’s biggest free family events.
More than 300 classic and competition vehicles from all eras will be on display in Coronation Park and Ormskirk town centre streets.
Organisers are looking for volunteer marshals to dog to the beach.
Dogs owners are being warned about the danger of pets drowning if they are caught in high tides or strong currents whilst swimming in the sea.
Dogs love to swim in the sea and although most will be accomplished paddlers, strong currents and high waves can easily cause dogs to become distressed, tired and in danger of drowning.
Parker and Crowther recommends always keeping your dog in sight while swimming in the sea and using dog lifejackets to keep them afloat and safe from drowning.
Jellyfish are frequently found on beaches and a sting can trigger a potentially fatal anaphylactic shock.
Symptoms of a jellyfish sting include blistering, burning pain, changes in heart rhythm, difficulty breathing, itching, nausea, fever, excessive drooling, vomiting, swellings and hives.
Seaweed, washed up crabs and dead sea birds are tempting to dogs, but can cause sickness.
Seaweed can expand in a dog’s stomach and become lodged in the gut, causing discomfort and pain.
Sea water causes sickness in dogs due to its salt content and it also contains bacteria and parasites.
Salt drying on dogs’ skin can cause irritation and severe itching.
Owners are urged to carry fresh water for their dogs to drink and to rinse their coats after swimming in the sea.
Palm oil, which is harmless in its normal state, can be dangerous to dogs when washed up as it is laden with bacteria and other harmful waste found in the sea.
For advice, or if you suspect your dog has eaten something it shouldn’t have while on the beach, Parker and Crowther Vets advises contacting your vet immediately.