My Dog Got Sick After the Beach — What To Do
Beach Dangers in Dogs: Sand, Salt, & Heat Risk for Pet Owners
Virginia Beach is paradise for dogs who love a sunny beach day. It’s always good for you to keep in mind that a fun day can turn dangerous fast. At Furgent Care, we regularly treat dogs for vomiting, heat stroke, and other issues after beach outings.
If your dog seems off after a trip to the beach, here are the four most common risks to know and when to visit urgent care.
** While we can help with mild to moderate cases, severe symptoms may require emergency or 24-hour specialty care. Call us before arriving to discuss your pet’s symptoms.
Sand Impaction: When Dogs Swallow Too Much Sand
Sand impaction occurs when a dog swallows too much sand while playing at the beach. It might happen gradually — through repeated digging, licking, or chewing on sandy toys — or quickly, if your dog drinks saltwater filled with suspended sand. Once swallowed, the sand can compact in the stomach or intestines, forming a dense blockage that the body struggles to pass. This condition can be extremely painful and, in severe cases, may require surgical intervention to resolve.
Common Signs of Sand Impaction in Dogs:
Vomiting, sometimes with visible traces of sand or grit
Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
Abdominal bloating or visible discomfort when touched
Lethargy, restlessness, or unusual posture indicating pain
How to Prevent Sand Impaction:
✔ Avoid playing fetch in areas with dry, loose sand where sand easily sticks to toys and your dog’s tongue
✔ Rinse your dog’s mouth with clean, fresh water after play sessions, especially if they’ve been digging or chewing on sandy items
✔ Monitor your dog closely for signs of excessive digging, licking, or eating sand — if they’re fixated on it, it’s time for a break
If your dog starts showing symptoms after a beach outing, don’t wait. Sand impaction can escalate quickly, and early treatment can prevent more serious complications.
Salt Toxicity: When Ocean Water Becomes Dangerous For Dogs
Dogs don’t always know when to stop drinking from the ocean. Whether they’re retrieving toys, swimming, or simply lapping at the waves, they can easily ingest too much saltwater without you realizing it. This leads to salt toxicity, also called saltwater poisoning. High levels of sodium disrupt the body’s fluid balance and can quickly cause dehydration, vomiting, and even neurological symptoms.
Even a moderate amount of ocean water can be enough to make your dog sick, especially on a hot day when they’re already dehydrated. If left untreated, salt toxicity can become life-threatening.
Common Signs of Salt Toxicity in Dogs:
Excessive thirst followed by increased urination
Vomiting and watery or foamy diarrhea
Loss of coordination, muscle tremors, or seizures in severe cases
Confusion, restlessness, or collapse
How to Prevent Salt Toxicity:
✔ Bring plenty of clean, fresh water and offer it often throughout your beach visit
✔ Discourage your dog from drinking from the ocean, especially during play
✔ Watch closely after swimming — if your dog vomits or seems off, seek veterinary care immediately
Gastroenteritis: When Beach Snacks Go Very Wrong
Dogs are natural scavengers, and the beach can be full of tempting but dangerous items like dead fish, seaweed, shells, trash, and even animal waste which can lead to dietary indiscretion, a term vets use when a dog eats something they shouldn’t. In most cases, this leads to gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
While some mild cases may pass with time, others can result in severe vomiting, dehydration, or infection that requires medical attention. Some items can also be toxic or contain harmful bacteria.
Common Signs of Gastroenteritis from Beach Scavenging:
Sudden vomiting, sometimes repeatedly
Diarrhea, which may be loose, watery, or even bloody
Dehydration, weakness, or listlessness
Stomach pain, whining, or reluctance to eat or drink
How to Prevent Beach-Related Gastroenteritis:
✔ Keep your dog on a leash in high-debris areas to avoid unsupervised scavenging
✔ Avoid areas known for fish kills or heavy algae buildup
✔ Bring safe treats and toys to redirect your dog’s attention
If your dog starts vomiting after the beach or has diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours, it’s time to check in with a vet.
Heat Stroke: A Serious Summer Emergency
Heat stroke is one of the most dangerous conditions dogs can face, Virginia Beach’s summer heat can overwhelm dogs quickly, especially during beach days. Dogs cool off by panting and through their paw pads, but on hot sand and under full sun, they can rapidly overheat. Add in physical activity like running or swimming, and their internal temperature may rise to a dangerous level.
Without fast action, heat stroke can cause organ failure, seizures, or even death. Dogs with flat faces, thick coats, or underlying health issues are especially vulnerable.
Early Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs:
Rapid, heavy panting that doesn’t slow down
Bright red or pale gums, thick drool
Weakness, wobbling, or confusion
Vomiting or diarrhea
What to Do Immediately:
✔ Move your dog to a shaded or cool area right away
✔ Wet their paws, belly, and ears with cool (but not icy) water
✔ Offer small sips of fresh water
✔ Call your vet or go directly to a 24 hour emergency center.
Even if your dog seems to improve, underlying damage may still be occurring, so veterinary evaluation is always recommended.
Beach Safety Checklist:
Pack fresh water & a bowl
Use a leash near hazards
Rinse off salt & sand after play
Watch for unusual behavior
Enjoy the Beach Safely with Your Dog. With the right precautions, your pup can have fun without a trip to the vet. But if trouble strikes, Furgent Care is here to help with urgent beach-related illnesses.
Worried About Your Dog’s Day at the Beach? We Can Help!
At Furgent Care, we offer after-hours veterinary care for non-life-threatening emergencies. This includes digestive issues, minor injuries, skin problems, and more.
Located in Virginia Beach | Open Weekdays 2 PM – 10 PM (closed Tuesdays) | Weekends 10 AM – 10 PM
You don't need an appointment—join our check in online to our waitlist and bring your dog to our veterinary urgent care today. Our team is here to help guide you through your emergency and provide peace of mind.
If you have any specific questions, call us at 757-656-5650 and one of our techs will be happy to help you.