Beach holidays with your pet made easy

The sound of the waves, the salty breeze, and the soft sand stimulate the senses of dogs and cats, encourage exercise, and strengthen their bond with their human family. However, to ensure the day is both enjoyable and safe, it’s essential to plan every detail in advance. Keep reading to discover how to turn your next seaside getaway into the best memory for your furry companion.

Schedule a check-up at least two weeks before your trip. This allows you to:

• Update vaccines and deworming to protect against mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks common in warm areas.
• Request a health certificate if required by the region’s regulations or your mode of transport.
• Get advice on pet-safe sunscreen and motion sickness pills if traveling by car.

Practice the commands “come,” “stay,” and “heel” in environments with distractions. A dog that obeys right away helps prevent incidents with other beachgoers. If you're traveling with a cat, gradually get them used to wearing a harness and staying in a carrier: short sessions, treats, and lots of patience are key.

• Collar with ID tag and a sturdy leash; consider a GPS tracker if your pet tends to run off.
• Portable water bowl and a bottle of fresh water—offer water every 20 minutes.
• Microfiber towel, waste bags, and a brush to remove sand.
• Pet-safe sunscreen without zinc oxide, applied to the nose, ears, and belly.
• Floating toys, light snacks, and treats to reward good behavior.

Heatstroke is one of the most underestimated risks. Set up your spot under an umbrella and place an insulating mat so your pet doesn’t burn their paws. Offer water frequently and avoid peak sun hours (12 PM – 4 PM). Watch for signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, pale gums, and lethargy. If in doubt, move your pet to the shade, wet them with cool —not cold— water, and contact a vet.

Not all beaches allow pets. Check the official list and follow local signage. Calella, for example, has a designated dog beach with special showers for dogs. Remember:

• Bring biodegradable waste bags and always clean up after your pet.
• Keep your dog leashed in access areas and be respectful when approaching other pet owners.
• If your dog is classified as potentially dangerous, it must wear a muzzle according to regional regulations.

• Water fetch with soft floating discs to protect your dog’s teeth.
• Shallow water running for dogs still learning to swim.
• Feline “snorkeling” from the shore: some curious cats enjoy dipping their paws to “fish” for small creatures.

Always supervise your furry friend—even experienced swimmers can tire out from the current.

Rinse with fresh water to remove salt and sand that can irritate the skin. Dry folds, armpits, and the groin area thoroughly to prevent hot spots. A warm air blower can help with long-haired dogs.

Use a drying ear solution if your pet is prone to ear infections. Inspect paw pads and between toes—hot sand can cause minor burns or hide grass seeds.

A pet-friendly hotel should offer more than just permission. Look for:

• Welcome kits with a bed, food and water bowls, and treats.
• Access to common areas like terraces or lounge bars without excessive restrictions.
• Updated info on local vets, pet stores, and nearby dog-friendly beaches.

The Hotel Internacional from Calella meets these standards and goes further, offering pet-sitting services and a pet-spa so you can enjoy the Costa del Maresme worry-free.