Some doggies love the beach, others don’t! Whether we take our furry canine pals with us or not, this is a decision to be made wisely.
If we do, there are mountains of lists to help make the adventure a safe, pleasurable one for both animal and human alike.
Jenny Clarke, president of APAA (Association for Protection of Animals Algarve), has over the years received calls for guidelines.
“We (humans) make a list of stuff we need for the beach. So, do the same for the dog,” she said. “Some take to the sea like, well, a duck to water, but others don’t. It’s pretty obvious from their behaviour. If you have to drag or carry a dog onto the beach, there’s a problem from the start.”
Take extra water in a cold box just in case the beach bar “isn’t” anymore or does not allow pets. Make sure you have a sturdy bowl for the dog to drink safely out of – ice cold water is not a good idea. Cool yes, lukewarm yuk! Also take a handful of treats and an old towel or rug for the canine to dry off. Dogs can get over-heated very easily. Make sure the doggy gets some shade and place a wet towel gently over the hot, panting dog. Repeat until dog is calm and rested.
Older dogs are best left at home or taken on the quieter time of day, sun-up or sun-down. Ensure the beach you are visiting is dog friendly. You may need to check if it is too friendly! Is your dog, female, likely to be on heat? Have you a nervous dog who doesn’t like a lot of other canines around?
Jenny has also seen the bad side of summer-shopping in car parks. “Never leave an animal in a locked car without air. You may have a very dead dog on your hands. Sorry, but this happens.” Leave your best friend at home, happy and cool, wagging tail ready to welcome you home.
Kick off the flip-flops and have a day off with friends at home. No kidding!
Buffet service
APAA can provide that special buffet supper, lunch or tea. Be waited on, hand and foot. Planning, buying, prepping, cooking all done. No washing up. Call Jenny 919 041 903 or email events.apaaportugal@gmail.com. Bring it on!
Date for your diary
June 24 – Bargain Pop-Up Sale, from 12pm-3pm, at Recanto dos Mouros in Silves (behind castle). For lunch at 1pm, book with Jenny on 919 041 903. Couvert, pork in orange sauce or ‘bacalhau’ with bacon and tomato, puds, and drinks. Price €22.50 per person.
APAA Charity Shops
- Alvor – Dunas Complex, Monday-Saturday, 10.30am-2pm
- Silves – Rua Elias Garcias 20, Monday-Saturday, 10am-2pm.
Packed with goodies. Bring or buy!
For enquiries, contact Jenny Clarke at APAA: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com
