There are few things I enjoy more than a trip to the beach with my dogs. Nothing is better than the sight of a dog catching an incoming wave, digging in the sand or just having a nice walk down a wide beach.
Padre Island does allow dogs on the public beaches and in the parks. This is not always true for other beaches in the country. In Florida, dogs are only allowed on very specific parts of some beaches. So bringing your dogs to the shore is really a priviledge rather than a right. Padre's laws regarding dogs are pretty liberal but, there are a few rules to follow. First, all dogs must be leashed at all times. There is a really big fine for an unleashed dog. Second, you are expected to pick up after your dog. This is not only law but, really a necessity. Most visitors do go barefoot on our beach. Enough said.
I also think there are some points of ettiquette to be followed when I bring my dogs to the beach. I understand that some people have phobias or fears about dogs and that visitors from other countries may have different perceptions of dogs. I dont want to make anyone afraid or uncomfortable around my dog. So I work hard to remember that not everyone wants to be greeted by my dog, that some children may be scared by sniffing and that others dont know if my dog is friendly or not. So I keep mine on a pretty close leash and I wait for others to exit the beach walkways before I enter with my dogs.
The sights and smells of the shore are pretty exciting to dogs. This great playground full of new people and places to dig and smell can be overwhelming for a dog. It doesnt always lead to the best dog behavior. So I am pretty aware of the other dogs around me. I like having my dogs greet others when they are calm and in a controlled environment but, the beach isnt always that place. So I am careful about approaching other dog owners and introducing our dogs. I prefer to ask in advance if a friendly dog owner is approaching or to give other dogs a wide berth as they walk by.
Sometimes I find that other beachgoers can be very friendly towards my dogs. Which is great. But, there are rules of ettiquette for approaching a dog as well. When groups of children run up to a dog and immediately put their hands on the animal this is usually cause for alarm with many dogs. When people and especially children walk up to my dog I prefer that they ask to pet the dog. Then I ask my dog to sit before they can be pet. I encourage strangers to let the dog sniff them first by way of introduction. It is really important that children learn how to approach a dog. My dogs happen to be very friendly with strangers but, they can be a great learning tool that may prevent a bad situation with a less friendly dog in the future. As dog owner, we can help educate others about approaching dogs and respecting their space.
Dogs and the beach are a great combination resulting in a great time for both pet and owner. Just remember your dog owner ettiquette and the rules of the beach for maximum enjoyment for all.