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An older man in an olive sweater sits on a weathered boardwalk bench by the ocean, petting a smiling red merle Aussie. 32 / 32

A Windy Day at the Boardwalk, One Old Bench, and the Happiest Face on the Beach

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Gray clouds hang low over the shoreline, and a salty breeze ruffles the dune grass along the edge of the boardwalk. Kenji sits on a weathered wooden bench in an olive sweater and khaki pants, glasses on and grinning, one hand tucked into the thick fur on Maple's chest. Maple sits pressed against his knees, chin tilted up, mouth open in a joyful pant, her long red merle coat blowing slightly in the wind. Beach houses line the boardwalk behind them, potted succulents sit by a doorstep, and the ocean stretches out in the distance past the railing.

Beach outings can be a blast for dogs, but they come with their own checklist. Check local rules first, since many beaches restrict dogs during certain seasons or hours. Bring plenty of fresh water so your dog is not tempted to drink salt water, which can make them sick. Sand and boardwalk planks can get very hot in summer, so test the surface with your hand before letting paws touch it. Watch for washed-up fish, shells, or trash that might be tempting to eat. After a day by the sea, rinse your dog with fresh water to remove salt and sand from their coat, which matters especially for long-coated breeds like Aussies.

The waves keep rolling in and the gulls keep calling overhead. Kenji and Maple, however, are in no hurry to leave their favorite bench by the sea.

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