BEACH WARNING: DOG OWNERS' SCARE REVEAL HIDDEN DANGER OF SAND INGESTION
For Melbourne pet owner Rebecca de Gier, a fun day at the beach with her beloved dog, Teddy turned into a frightening medical emergency after sand ingestion.
What started as a routine game of fetch during a Gold Coast holiday quickly became life-threatening when Teddy, pictured, unknowingly ingested large amounts of sand.
“Teddy was his usual happy and playful self before he got sick,” Rebecca recalls. “We were playing fetch on the beach with a soft toy, and I had no idea that he was accidentally swallowing sand.”
Shortly after returning home, Rebecca noticed Teddy was restless, uncomfortable, and continuously stretching unusually.
She trusted her instincts and contacted her vet, who suggested he might have a stomach issue. As his condition worsened, local veterinarians directed her to the Animal Emergency Centre on the Gold Coast, where X-rays confirmed a severe case of sand impaction.
“His symptoms included restlessness, lethargy, a decreased appetite, and an inability to get comfortable,” Rebecca says.
Teddy was placed on IV fluids and given medication to help the sand pass naturally. Fortunately, an overnight stay and a course of probiotics aided his recovery, sparing him from surgery.
Now fully recovered, Teddy’s ordeal has left Rebecca urging other dog owners to be more cautious.
“My advice is, don't play fetch on the sand! Do your research before heading to the beach, especially if you're not familiar with potential risks. Things like hot pathways, ticks, and parasites should always be considered. Trust your gut—I’m so glad I took Teddy to the vet when I did.”
The Hidden Risk of Sand Ingestion in Dogs
With temperatures rising and pet owners flocking to the beach, Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) warns dog owners about the dangers of sand ingestion.
What may seem like harmless play can quickly escalate into a medical emergency, as dogs often swallow sand while fetching toys, digging, or licking their fur.
Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for PIA, explains, “Dogs can ingest sand without their owners realising. Wet sand becomes dense and heavy, causing grains to stick together as they move through the intestines. Over time, this buildup can lead to dangerous blockages, requiring urgent veterinary care.”
Signs & Symptoms of Sand Impaction
Dog owners should be aware of the following symptoms, which may indicate sand ingestion:
Vomiting or dry retching
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain or swelling
Straining to defecate or inability to pass stool
Diarrhoea containing sand particles
If a dog displays any of these symptoms after a beach visit, immediate veterinary attention is crucial.
How to Prevent Sand Ingestion
To reduce the risk of sand ingestion, PIA offers these essential tips:
Use Elevated Bowls & Mats – Feeding dogs on a raised surface or blanket prevents them from consuming sand while eating or drinking.
Choose the Right Toys – Opt for solid, easy-to-clean toys and avoid throwing soft or porous ones that collect sand.
Encourage Hydration – Ensure your dog drinks fresh water to reduce the chance of licking sand-coated surfaces.
Supervised Play – Keep an eye on dogs when they dig or play in sandy areas.
Rinse Off After Play – Wash your dog’s mouth and paws after beach visits to remove residual sand.
The Role of Pet Insurance in Emergencies
Treatment for sand impaction can be costly, often requiring imaging, IV fluids, and, in severe cases, surgery. Having comprehensive pet insurance can help alleviate the financial stress of unexpected emergencies.
“No one expects their fun day at the beach to turn into an emergency vet visit,” Ms Crighton says. “That’s why being informed and prepared is essential for pet owners.”
