How to avoid beach blunders

The dog days of summer are here!

Warm summer days are perfect for enjoying the beach with your pup. A dip in the surf or swim in a lake make for a marvelous way to beat the heat—so long as you’re pup-pared.

In addition to towels and toys, we recommend packing a pet-safe sunscreen, plenty of fresh water and Nationwide pet insurance of course—which allows you to use any veterinarian, anywhere, including on vacation and on trips to the shore. Here are some tips and tales to keep your pet safe.

A common beach day claim: Ear infections

Ear infections are one of the top 10 claims submitted by Nationwide pet insurance members annually. They’re also more common in warmer months, especially among pets who swim or get their ears wet. Luckily, prevention goes a long way to ensuring pets have a wet and wonderful time without an ensuing veterinary visit.

Soon after your pet goes swimming, gently dry their ears with a clean towel or use a pet-safe ear drying solution. In between beach trips, cleaning your pet’s ears regularly with an appropriate cleaning solution can remove excess debris and wax that can lead to bacterial growth. Also, keep hair around the ears trimmed to improve airflow and prevent moisture buildup.

Treatment for an ear infection typically costs around $302 to treat, based on Nationwide claims data for canine ear infection treatment. However, repeated ear infections can be a sign of an underlying problem. If ear troubles become a regular issue, your pet may need additional veterinary care.

Hidden dangers for dogs at the beach

The seaside is a popular locale for many Hambone Award® nominee animal encounters, due to the large number of stinging creatures who call the ocean home. For example, a beach day with Dublin, an Aussie shepherd living in Florida, turned into a frightful trip to the emergency veterinarian when she stepped on a Portuguese man-of-war hidden underneath some seaweed. Luckily, a couple of antihistamine shots did the trick, and Dublin was back to laying on the sand in no time.

Not every hazard is on the shore though—like the stingray that spoiled a lovely beach day for Maddy, a Labrador in North Carolina. Then there’s Marley, another Lab who retrieved a toxic sea urchin from beneath the waves and was rushed to the vet for treatment. Each of these pets received the care they needed, and their eligible veterinary bills were covered by Nationwide.

Protection for your pooch at the dog beach

Nationwide pet insurance offers peace of mind coverage for good vibes at the beach (and beyond). Coverage can be used at any licensed veterinarian in the U.S., including emergency clinics and specialists, so you’re protected from the unexpected wherever you venture.

Plus, Nationwide pet insurance members also get access to 24/7 veterinary telehealth support for answers to pet health questions from ear care to swim wear, all included with their pet's policy. Get a quote today at petinsurance.com.