DOG BEACH BOUND

What to know before you go

San Diego County is home to four beautiful beaches where your dog is welcome to romp, play, and splash off-leash with you and other like-minded dogs. Before you grab the closest leash and head for the car, take care of these things first, so you go prepared.

1. SHOTS AND TAGS
Since your pet will be mingling with other canines, adults, and children, be sure all vaccinations are up to date. Also check your dog’s license to be sure it is current and that a license tag is securely connected to the collar.

2. SOCIABILITY AND OBEDIENCE
Does your dog get nervous or hostile around other dogs? Wait until you have mastered some basic commands and then plan on keeping your dog on-leash in the quietest part of the beach. Even if your dog is the life of the party, it helps to practice the basic commands (come, sit, stay, and leave it) before you head for the beach. “It’s always important to know your animal and when it’s safe to let them off leash and interact with other dogs,” says Cody Decker, who owns Decker’s Dog + Cat with his wife Kensey in La Jolla and Bay Park.

3. LEASH LAWS AND OTHER RULES
The hours and boundaries for off-leash areas can change according to the season and local rules, so check online first. “If you’re taking your first trip to the dog beach, packing a fifteen- to twenty-foot leash is a great way to start building trust with your dog and ensure a safer experience,” Kensey says. She adds that some beaches require a shorter leash, so know the leash laws for your destination.

4. SAFETY FIRST
Since dogs can suffer from dehydration, sunburn, and insect bites, bring along plenty of water in a reliable drinking device, sunscreen, and bug repellent, and make a mental note of where the closest vet clinic is located. “If the sand feels hot, be careful because dogs’ feet burn and you don’t want to risk injuries due to the heat,” Cody says. “And bring a shade source like a pop-up tent on a hot day.” Dog life jackets are also advisable for even the best swimmers in case they suddenly grow tired or get caught in an undercurrent.

5. GOOD DOG BEACH ETIQUETTE
Always clean up after your pet right away and dispose of waste bags properly. It’s wise to have an extra roll of waste bags in a dispenser connected to your dog’s leash. Keep your eyes on your dog to be sure they are safe, happy, and not pestering others. Teach your dog to respect wildlife and discourage them from getting aggressive with birds and marine life.

WHAT TO PACK
Car seat cover
Portable water bowl
Canine sunscreen & bug repellent
Extra roll of waste bags
Extra leash
Snap collar with ID tag & contact info
First aid kit
Waterless shampoo
Grooming wipes
Microfiber drying towel
Shammy towel

WHERE TO GO
The Original Dog Beach, Ocean Beach
West Point Loma Blvd & Voltaire St.
Open 24 hours
Off-leash year round

Fiesta Island Dog Park, Mission Bay
Mission Bay Park
Open 6 am–10pm
Off-leash year round

North Beach Dog Run, Coronado
100 Ocean Blvd
Open 24 hours
Off-leash year round

Del Mar Dog Beach, Del Mar
3200 Camino Del Mar (Hwy 101)
Open 24 hours
Labor Day–June 15: off-leash
north of 29th St to Via De La Valle

June 16–Labor Day: off-leash
dawn to 8 am only