Consuming large amounts of seawater can result in harmful side effects for your dog, including diarrhoea, vomiting, increased heart rate, loss of appetite and, in severe cases, seizures.
While temperatures are rising around the UK, going to the beach has certain dangers for dogs. Keep reading for everything you need to know about the dangers of drinking saltwater, including saltwater poisoning and symptoms to look out for.
Is it dangerous for dogs to drink seawater?
Drinking excessive amounts of salt water is dangerous for dogs. This is because the high levels of salt in the seawater can disrupt the fluid balance in your dog's body, drawing water from the blood into their intestines.
Sean McCormack, head vet at Tails.com, explains this further: "Seawater contains a high balance of salt, approximately 35 grams of salt in every 1 litre (1000 ml). If your dog drinks too much it can quickly become dehydrated, and symptoms can worsen if your dog isn’t provided with fresh drinking water."
If your dog has ingested too much seawater, they may start to display the following symptoms:
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy
- Convulsions
- Increased heart rate
- Loss of coordination
- Tremors
- Excessive thirst
- Loss of appetite
- Seizures
"If you recognise these signs within your pup during your trip to the beach, you need to get them to the vet as soon as possible," Sean adds. "If left untreated they could suffer serious kidney damage, brain damage and rapid dehydration which could prove fatal."
What should you do if your dog drinks too much seawater?
If your dog has consumed too much seawater, follow the vet-approved steps below:
1. Take them home and monitor them. If they are showing the above signs, take them directly to an emergency vet to be observed. The vets will help to reduce the sodium levels in your dog's blood.
2. Providing a relaxing and calming environment for your pup is crucial for recovery. Bring their belongings into a quiet room, one that can be easily cleaned as your dog may suffer from vomiting and diarrhoea.
3. Give your dog small amounts of water every 30 minutes, to help their bodies replace the fluids.
How can you prevent seawater poisoning in dogs?
pet head Sunny Daze Prism Dog Water Bottle 250ml
pet head Sunny Daze Prism Dog Water Bottle 250ml
When dogs are thirsty, they will drink almost anything. Owners can prevent seawater poisoning by ensuring pets have enough fresh, clean water to drink. If you are heading on a day trip to the beach, make sure you bring a dog bowl (you can buy a portable water dispenser for on-the-go).
Sean adds: "It's also a good idea for your dog to take a break from the sea every 15 minutes or so. Use this time to offer your dog fresh water, if they are refusing to drink, squirt or pour it directly into their mouth. Regularly drinking fresh water will help to rehydrate them.
"Keep a close eye on your dog when they head down to the waters and limit your beach outings with your furry friend to two hours."
The best dog-friendly cottages in the UK
1 Woodheads, Lake District
A magnificent first floor apartment, 1 Woodheads, sits nine miles from Lake Windermere and is part of a Regency-style villa with views out towards Morecambe Bay and the distant Pennines. Here, you're only half a mile from a year-round dog-friendly beach - imagine your beloved pet bounding across stretches of sand, as well as through nearby forest glens.
Back at your luxury dog-friendly cottage, period features are combined with elegant style to create a visual feast. You can serve up summery salads in the super-smart dining room or in the garden. On balmy evenings, with the veranda doors all opened wide, tease out some tunes on the piano, inspired by an aperitif and the wondrous views.
Sleeps: 4
Dogs allowed: 1
Tenbury Cottage, Shropshire
Situated deep in rolling South Shropshire countryside, with a wealth of walks direct from the door, plus 12 acres of lush farmland to explore, Tedbury Cottage is perfect for a dog-friendly escape. The Clee Hills and Mortimer Forest are both within easy reach, too, and when you're not out exploring the cosy interiors provide the lovely place to relax.
The interior design of this open-plan house is tasteful, with neutral and pastel colours dominating the palette. You can make the most of the separate stables, which house a rather unique bar with a fireplace. Simply bring your own beer, stoke up the wood-burner and test your skills at traditional darts. Dogs, physically fatigued from their rural adventures, can conk out in front of the fire.
Sleeps: 4
Dogs allowed: 2
The Scandinavian Lodge, North Norfolk
This rustic, Scandinavian-designed dog-friendly cottages is set in beautiful grounds in North Yorkshire. Between the lodge's painted exterior, its sky-blue-sparkling hot tub and the vibrancy of its interiors, seasonal dreariness doesn’t stand a chance.
The open-plan living space is characterful and will delight children of all ages (as will the Smart TV with Sky). There’s a hammock on the first floor veranda, and it’s a great spot to swing and take in the view. Four-legged friends have their own space in the ‘Doghouse’ and walks across the North York Moors are a must-do.
Sleeps: 8
Dogs allowed: 2
Pevensey Bay Beach Retreat, Sussex
Pevensey Bay Beach Retreat is a fantastic holiday home, right on the beach in Sussex, that cleverly blends contemporary living with seaside charm.
Panoramic sea views through the bi-fold doors, coupled with colourful accessories, hand-selected from Joules. Within walking distance is the village of Pevensey with its striking castle, now an English Heritage site.
Sleeps: 8
Dogs allowed: 1
Bluebell Lodge, Cornwall
Just six miles from Padstow’s charming fishing harbour, Bluebell Lodge is a chic, eco-friendly dog-friendly lodge in a beautiful location. They can chase waves and sticks at one of the many fantastic sandy spots dotted along the north Cornish coastline, with Constantine Bay, Fistral Beach, Mawgan Porth Beach and Polzeath all within easy reach.
Back at base, dogs can enjoy the open-plan living space and garden while you fire up the BBQ and dine beneath the Cornish sky. Tranquil and trendy, the three bedrooms are tastefully decorated, and the family bathroom has a shower over the bath for hounds in need of a hose down.
Sleeps: 6
Dogs allowed: 2
Knockderry Lodge, Argyll and Bute
This impressive, architect-designed lodge overlooking Loch Long in beautiful Argyllshire is a truly five-star stay for those seeking the ultimate in comfort and luxury. Situated in an elevated position close to the village of Cove, the dog-friendly cottage is ideally located for enjoying water sports on Loch Long and Gare Loch, with opportunities for sailing, kayaking, windsurfing and more nearby.
The lodge has a slate deck running around the outside of the property with luxurious loungers, a funky picnic table for alfresco meals and a luxurious hot tub, where you can relax with a glass of something chilled and admire the view across the lawn down to the twinkling loch.
Sleeps: 4
Dogs allowed: 1
No.36 By The Beach, Devon
No.36 By The Beach is a contemporary beach house with plenty of space for everyone to spread out. Standing next to the Royal North Devon golf course and on the edge of the lively coastal village of Westward Ho! (blessed with a three-mile stretch of golden sand), the dog-friendly cottage offers wonderful views of the North Devon coastline both from the enclosed garden and from the full-width balcony.
Flourishes of Joules’ vibrant homeware complement the pad’s elegant interiors, from hand-picked dinnerware to luxurious bed linen. The cottage is reverse level: upstairs is the sleek kitchen/ dining/living area with a wood-burner and bi-fold doors onto the spacious first-floor balcony. The four bedrooms are at ground level, including a bunk bedroom to add to the holiday fun for children.
Sleeps: 8
Dogs allowed: 2
Catcleugh Farmhouse, Northumberland
A stylish, rustic former farmhouse enjoying magnificent views over Catcleugh Reservoir, Catcleugh Farmhouse is located directly in Northumberland Dark Sky Park, Europe’s largest area of protected night sky. There are fabulous walking routes from the property onto the Pennine Way, so you won't want to forget your walking shoes.
A wonderfully large and well-equipped dog-friendly cottage, here you have the ideal family base for an outdoorsy gang who are ready to wear themselves out in the Northumberland countryside.
Sleeps: 10
Dogs allowed: 3
Ochre, Devon
In a great location for you to explore both Devon and Cornwall, this contemporary dog-friendly cottages is set within a beautiful garden, too. With miles of rolling countryside views and a plunge pool less than 50 yards from the front door, it’s an excellent spot for couples or a family, plus their furry friends.
There’s glorious walking along the South West Coast Path and the equally popular Tarka Trail, plus Exmoor and Dartmoor to explore. Art lessons are available on-site for those wishing to enjoy a creative holiday.
Sleeps: 4
Dogs allowed: 3
The Old Tin School, North Yorkshire
This open-plan studio-style space in the heart of Yorkshire moorland is a romantic sanctuary for couples travelling with their dogs. High ceilings and large windows make it bright and airy, while industrial-style touches mixed with more traditional pieces create a warm and cosy contemporary feel.
You can do as much or as little at this dog-friendly cottage: spend lazy mornings in the wrought iron bed, go on scenic walks, including the Cleveland Way National Trail, and snuggle up in front of the wood burner with the pups snoozing at your feet.
Sleeps: 2
Dogs allowed: 2
Tawny Owl, Cornwall
Just six miles from Padstow’s charming fishing harbour, Tawny Owl is a chic, eco-friendly lodge in a beautiful location. The dogs can chase waves and sticks at one of many sandy spots dotted along the north Cornish coastline. Constantine Bay, Fistral Beach, Mawgan Porth Beach and Polzeath are all within easy reach, as is the impossibly pretty Port Isaac.
Back at base, everyone will love the open-plan living space and garden while you fire up the BBQ and dine beneath the Cornish sky. Tranquil and trendy, the three bedrooms are stylishly decorated, and the family bathroom has a shower over the bath for hounds in need of a hose down.
Sleeps: 6
Dogs allowed: 2
The Turret at Inchglas, Perth and Kinross
A Victorian Gothic revival mansion with plenty of period features including turret and exposed stone walls, this dog-friendly cottage in Scotland is a delight. It's set amid landscaped gardens close to the heart of bustling Crieff. The town offers a splendid range of boutique and independent shops and quality eateries, while the magnificent Drummond Castle Gardens are nearby.
Inside, there is a large feature fireplace with beautiful, exposed stone walls and an electric wood burner for cosy nights in. There is a quirky, turret walk-in wet room with a shower and toilet, as well as a cosy double bedroom.
Sleeps: 2
Dogs allowed: 1
FAQs
How do you prevent saltwater poisoning in dogs? ›
Preventing Saltwater Poisoning
If you notice your dog drinking ocean water, restrict their access, provide them with fresh water and shade, and keep an eye on out for signs of toxicity. Take a break away from the water every 15 minutes to help avoid salt poisoning as well.
Excess salt intake in dogs results in vomiting within several hours after ingestion. Clinical signs can progress to weakness, diarrhea, muscle tremors, and seizures.
What are the home remedies in salt water poisoning dogs? ›If your dog has been drinking sea water, they might experience vomiting and diarrhoea. Offer your dog sips of fresh water every 30 minutes or so. Regularly drinking fresh water will help to rehydrate them and will replenish their bodily fluids.
What does salt poisoning look like in dogs? ›So what does a pet look like if they're suffering from salt toxicity? Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, incoordination, excessive thirst, excessive urination, tremors, seizures and sometimes death.
How fast does salt poisoning happen in dogs? ›Signs and symptoms of toxicity: Vomiting is most often the first clinical sign of toxicity. Others signs may include diarrhea, depression, lethargy, tremors, seizures, shortness of breath, and disorientation. These signs have been reported within 3 hours of ingestion.
How much salt water will make a dog sick? ›For a dog to drink toxic amounts of seawater, they'd need to ingest around 2.2 teaspoons of salt per pound of body weight. Considering there are about 2 teaspoons of salt in a cup of seawater, your dog would have to drink lots of seawater to reach toxic levels.
What are the first signs of water intoxication in dogs? ›According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, initially—and in milder cases—clinical signs may include nausea, vomiting, lethargy and abdominal distention. In more severe cases, ataxia, weakness, coma, seizures, hypothermia, and bradycardia may occur.
How do you know if your dog is slowly poisoned? ›Clinical signs of poisoning in a dog may include: Gastrointestinal signs: vomiting, diarrhea, extreme salivation, loss of appetite, and nausea or dry heaving. Internal bleeding: indicated by pale gums, a racing heart, coughing up or vomiting blood, weakness or lethargy, or a dog's falling over or collapsing.
How do you treat salt poisoning in animals? ›Treatment. Livestock affected by salt poisoning should be slowly introduced to small amounts of fresh water frequently until rehydration has occurred. If salt poisoning is a result of consuming excessively saline water, livestock should be immediately removed from this water supply.
How do you flush poison out of a dog's system? ›One of the most common treatment options for poisoning in dogs is inducing vomiting. Other treatment may include medication to reduce pain and symptoms, overnight monitoring, or IV's for flushing out the toxins in the system. The cost of treatment can vary from $250 to $5,000.
Does milk help a poisoned dog? ›
No. Milk is unlikely to be helpful in the vast majority of poisoning situations and can sometimes make things worse. Most pets are lactose intolerant and giving milk can cause or worsen stomach upset symptoms.
What is the first aid for dog poisoning? ›If your pet has ingested a poison, try to rinse or wipe out the mouth with a damp towel/flannel. Do not give your pet anything to eat or drink before speaking with the Animal Poisons Helpline or a vet. We receive a lot of calls with pet owners asking how to induce vomiting in dogs.
Can dogs survive salt poisoning? ›Salt poisoning in dogs and cats results in signs of vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy, incoordination, excessive thirst or urination. In severe cases, tremors, seizures, coma, and even death are possible.
What are the early signs of salt poisoning? ›The earliest and most common symptom is thirst. Other symptoms include fatigue, dry mouth, and restlessness. As the condition worsens a patient may have an increased heart rate, muscle spasms, or seizures. In severe cases coma, brain damage, or death may occur.
Can sidewalk salt make dogs sick? ›Even a small amount of pure salt can be very dangerous to pets. Ingestion can result in a high blood sodium concentration which can cause thirst, vomiting and lethargy, and in severe cases there is a risk of convulsions and kidney damage.
What happens if dog gets too much salt? ›Dehydration: Excessive salt can cause a dog's cells to dehydrate rapidly. Severe dehydration can lead to visible lethargy, confusion, and other detrimental neurological effects as a result of brain swelling. Your dog might also experience muscle cramps and joint stiffness due to high levels of sodium in their system.
Why is my dog sick after going to the beach? ›Dogs who visit the beach are in danger of what veterinarians call intestinal sand impaction. This condition can make dogs very sick and is potentially life-threatening, typically requiring emergency veterinary intervention.
What can I give my dog for electrolytes? ›If your pooch is mildly dehydrated provide your pet with small amounts of water to drink every few minutes or offer your dog pieces of ice to lick. To help restore your dog's electrolyte balance you could also provide your pup with Ringer's lactate (an electrolyte replacement fluid).
Can a dog survive water intoxication? ›Treatment of water intoxication typically includes IV delivery of electrolytes, diuretics and drugs to reduce brain swelling. With aggressive veterinary care, some dogs are able to recover, but sadly, many do not.
Can dogs recover from water intoxication on their own? ›But in severe cases, the brain damage is so advanced that it cannot be reversed, and the dog dies or must be euthanized. If you even suspect that your dog has water intoxication, get to a vet or emergency clinic immediately.
How long does water intoxication take in dogs? ›
Body temperature and heart rate can drop, and dogs can fall into a coma or start having seizures. This can happen very quickly, in a few short hours.
How do vets check for poisoning in dogs? ›If you don't know what poisoned your dog, be aware that your vet is not able to test for every possibility, but blood tests may help determine the source. Some poisons, such as antifreeze and certain rat poisons, have antidotes, so whenever that's the case your vet will administer the antidote as soon as possible.
What species of animal is most sensitive to salt poisoning? ›Salt toxicosis has been reported in virtually all species of animals worldwide. Although salt toxicosis has historically been more common in swine (the most susceptible species), cattle, and poultry, there are increasing reports of adverse effects in dogs from acute excess salt consumption.
Is hydrogen peroxide good for poisoned dog? ›If our dogs have ingested something harmful, ideally, it's safer to get them to your veterinarian immediately. However, there are times when vomiting needs to be induced sooner than later. In certain cases when you need to induce vomiting, hydrogen peroxide is a viable option but isn't without possible complications.
What absorbs poison in dogs? ›Activated charcoal is a medication often used in dogs to treat intoxication. The goal of activated charcoal is to absorb the toxin that the dog has ingested to lessen its adverse effects. Activated charcoal is a commonly used treatment and is often the first line of treatment for certain intoxications.
What gets rid of poisoning? ›antidotes – these are substances that either prevent the poison from working or reverse its effects. sedatives – may be given if the person is agitated. a ventilator (breathing machine) – may be used if the person stops breathing. anti-epileptic medicine – may be used if the person has seizures (fits)
Which poison Cannot be detected? ›Thallium is tasteless and odorless and has been used by murderers as a difficult to detect poison.
What happens if a dog doesn't throw up after hydrogen peroxide? ›If it has been more than 15 minutes after administration of the hydrogen peroxide and vomiting has not occurred, you may re-dose one more time. Do not continue to give your dog hydrogen peroxide if he is not vomiting. This could lead to an overdose and hydrogen peroxide toxicity.
How long does it take for poison to leave a dog's system? ›Depending on the type of poisoning, dogs may take weeks or months to recuperate, and some dogs may have permanent organ damage after recovery.
What is the most common poison for dogs? ›#1 – Antifreeze.
This is the most common deadly poison ingested by dogs and cats. As little as one teaspoon can kill a small dog. Antifreeze has a sweet taste and dogs like it. Please make sure to keep ALL antifreeze away from your dog.
How long after eating something will a dog get sick? ›
Symptoms typically develop within 12-24 hours after ingestion of the contaminated food source. In severe cases, food poisoning can cause death. The most common symptoms of food poisoning in dogs include: Vomiting.
Can a dog be saved from poisoning? ›25% of poisoned pets recover within two hours. Of the pets that take longer to recover, many can be treated at home with the advice of your veterinarian or with advice from the ASPCA Poison Control Center (telephone 1-888-426-4435). Even with treatment, one in 100 poisoned pets dies.
Can dogs eat cheese? ›Cheese can be given as an occasional treat in moderation, alongside a healthy diet. If your dog manages to eat a whole block or other large amount of cheese, they may vomit. Keep an eye on them, and call your vet for advice if they become unwell.
Why is my dog shaking? ›Some of the most common reasons for your dog's shaking & shivering are cold, excitement, stress & anxiety, seeking attention, pain or illness, and old age. It's important to recognize the difference between normal shaking vs. signs of a seizure.
How do you flush salt out of your body overnight? ›The best way to flush salt out of your body overnight is by drinking a glass of water with certain ingredients added. These include lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, green tea and baking soda. All of these have diuretic properties which will help reduce how much salt remains in the body after sleeping.
What are five consequences associated with high salt intake? ›But too much sodium in the diet can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It can also cause calcium losses, some of which may be pulled from bone. Most Americans consume at least 1.5 teaspoons of salt per day, or about 3400 mg of sodium, which contains far more than our bodies need.
What illness does salt cause? ›Salt (Sodium)
Too much salt increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Decreasing sodium intake could prevent many deaths.
If your dog or cat licks the road ice melt salt, a small amount will probably cause no clinical signs. But if your pet were to ingest a large amount of the ice melting salt, salt toxicity could occur. Ingestion of salt should always cause excessive thirst, but too much will lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Is salt on driveway bad for animals? ›When you spread rock salt over your driveway and your pet then walks on the salt, or on a salt-water slush resulting from its melting of the snow/ice, the salt crystals can attach to the animal's paw pads and cause irritation and burning. It can also lead to inflammation, redness, soreness, and bacterial infection.
How do you prevent salt poisoning? ›- First, make sure you drink sufficient amounts of water to help your body regain its desired sodium-to-water ratio ( 2 , 7 ).
- You can also try eating foods that are rich in potassium, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and dairy.
How can I prevent my dog from getting poisoning? ›
- keep your pet away from areas where chemicals and toxins are being used, such as the kitchen, bathroom or garage.
- ensure all chemicals are safely contained and stored out of reach of inquisitive paws and noses when not in use.
- do not keep poisonous plants in or around your home.
Do I need to wash my dog after the beach? You should always give your pet a thorough rinse after a trip to the beach in order to remove any sand or salt that has built up in their fur, which could cause skin irritation. Some dogs with longer hair or more sensitive skin may require a full bath after the beach.
How do you treat salt water poisoning? ›If you, or someone you know, is exhibiting symptoms of salt poisoning, or if your child has accidentally ingested a large amount of salt get help immediately. Treatments range from orally rehydration to intravenous fluids. The important thing is to get help fast.
What neutralizes salt intake? ›Drink More Water
Hydration is extremely important. Consuming sufficient water can help your body remove excess sodium from your body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, daily fluid intake recommendations vary by age, sex, pregnancy and breastfeeding status.
You can add lemon juice, lime juice, or apple cider vinegar to salty food to help neutralize the saltiness. A tomato product, such as tomato sauce or tomato paste, will also work since tomatoes are acidic.
Does milk help dogs with poisoning? ›No. Milk is unlikely to be helpful in the vast majority of poisoning situations and can sometimes make things worse. Most pets are lactose intolerant and giving milk can cause or worsen stomach upset symptoms.
What home remedy can I give my dog for poisoning? ›Poison Control
Consider using hydrogen peroxide (one teaspoon per five pounds of body weight), to induce vomiting. Dr. Putter advises using hydrogen peroxide (which is a gastric irritant) under consultation with animal poison control.
Clinical signs of poisoning in a dog may include: Gastrointestinal signs: vomiting, diarrhea, extreme salivation, loss of appetite, and nausea or dry heaving. Internal bleeding: indicated by pale gums, a racing heart, coughing up or vomiting blood, weakness or lethargy, or a dog's falling over or collapsing.
What animal is most susceptible to salt toxicity? ›Salt toxicosis has been reported in virtually all species of animals worldwide. Although salt toxicosis has historically been more common in swine (the most susceptible species), cattle, and poultry, there are increasing reports of adverse effects in dogs from acute excess salt consumption.
Is it OK for dogs to swim in the ocean? ›If the sea looks dangerous, don't let your dog swim – if the waves are very big, or you know that the tide is turning, it's not suitable for your pup. Don't let your pup swim in the sea if it's very cold – dogs can struggle when swimming in very cold water!
Is beach water safe for dogs? ›
If visiting saltwater, dogs shouldn't drink the water; excess salt can cause diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration, and can even be fatal in large amounts. In lakes and other fresh bodies of water, bacteria, algae or parasites may be present that are harmful if consumed.
Can salt water upset a dog's stomach? ›Drinking salt water can cause upset stomach and is very irritating. If your dog drinks a large amount of the water this can lead to electrolyte imbalances, essentially salt toxicity. Salt toxicity symptoms can include: vomiting, diarrhea, trouble walking, muscle tremors, and seizures.