Summer and the beach are a match made in heaven — and what could make it even better? Bringing your furry best friend along.

A successful and enjoyable beach day with your dog requires a little preparation. From finding the right spot to packing the essentials, here's your guide to getting your canine companion beach-ready.

1. Scout a Dog-Friendly Beach

Not all beaches welcome our four-legged friends, and ignoring those rules can lead to fines or being asked to leave.

Resources to check:

  • Local parks and recreation department websites
  • Tourism boards for the destination
  • Dedicated dog-travel sites (BringFido, GoPetFriendly, etc.)

Look for beaches that explicitly state they allow dogs, and note any specific rules — leash requirements, off-leash areas, or seasonal restrictions. Some Oregon Coast beaches have designated dog-friendly sections; others restrict dogs during certain months when shorebirds are nesting.

2. Pack the Essentials

  • Plenty of fresh water and a collapsible bowl — saltwater is not safe for dogs to drink
  • Leash (even if the beach allows off-leash; it's required for getting there)
  • Poop bags — always, every time
  • Towel for drying off and a second towel for the car
  • Dog-safe sunscreen for short-haired or light-skinned dogs (yes, dogs get sunburned)
  • Treats and a favorite toy

3. Build Up Slowly

If your dog hasn't been to a beach before, start with short visits and watch how they handle the new environment — sand, surf, smells, other dogs, people.

Some dogs love water immediately. Some take their time. Don't force the surf — let them approach at their own pace.

4. Watch for Hazards

  • Hot sand — can burn paw pads in midday sun. If you can't comfortably walk barefoot, neither can your dog.
  • Heat exhaustion — dogs cool themselves less efficiently than humans. Watch for heavy panting, lethargy, or stumbling.
  • Saltwater ingestion — small amounts of saltwater can cause severe vomiting and dehydration. Keep fresh water available constantly.
  • Sharp objects — driftwood, broken shells, fish hooks. Check paws regularly.
  • Wildlife — keep dogs away from seals, seabirds, and tide-pool life.

5. Aftercare

When you get home:

  • Rinse thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt and sand (especially between toes and in skin folds)
  • Check ears for moisture and sand
  • Brush out the coat
  • Watch for signs of illness the next 24 hours (vomiting, lethargy, etc.)

Enjoy the Coast

Klamath Falls is a quick haul to the Oregon Coast — Bandon, Brookings, Gold Beach, all an easy day or weekend trip. With a little preparation, you and your dog can make a real summer memory together.

Just bring extra towels. Always.