Board of commissioners restricts beach time for pets
Jul. 10—Glynn County prohibits dogs, cats and horses on the beach from 16th Street on East Beach to Mallery Street at the St. Simons Island Pier from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Labor Day.
The ordinance starts on Memorial Day. Lifeguards, public workers, police and postings enforce the ordinance. Violators may be punished by a fine or imprisonment.
Scorching sun and sizzling sand are signs that it's time for sandy paws to take a break.
If it is too hot to keep a hand on the sand or pavement, then it is too hot for a dog, said Dr. Jaclyn Luckstone, the managing veterinarian at Island Animal Hospital.
Along with burned paws, the blazing summer heat also puts pets at risk of dehydration, which can lead to heatstroke. The beach restriction reduces these heat dangers for dogs.
"We're not trying to take anything away from anyone's experience ..., but ... that sand is hot on their paws. Let them enjoy their nap while you enjoy the beach," said Katie Baasen, spokesperson for the Glynn County Commission.
While dogs can't clearly vocalize pain, owners can keep an eye out for warning signs such as "heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure and unconsciousness," according to the Humane Society website.
