TWO Sussex beaches have been ranked amongst the best and safest for dogs across the UK.

According to a list compiled by Vets Now, West Wittering beach in West Sussex and Cooden Beach in East Sussex are among the top 50 best beaches in the UK for dog safety.

The list took a number of factors into consideration including access to parking, nearby vet services, water quality and whether dogs are welcome all year round.

With a five-star water quality rating, the pet emergency service provider said West Wittering beach offers “charming” scenery and “lovely sandy beaches”.

“This is something of a rarity in an area mainly known for its pebbly beaches — so enjoy,” Vets Now said.

From May to September, a small area in front of a row of beach huts does not allow dogs.

Ingrid Ferbert, a frequent walker on the beach, said West Wittering is her favourite beach to walk her dogs Stig and Jazz on.

“There are beautiful sand dunes for the dogs to run on as well as spectacular runs in the sea,” she said.

“You could walk for miles here and dogs are allowed all year round except for a small area.”

The Argus: Beach huts on Cooden Beach, Bexhill Beach huts on Cooden Beach, Bexhill

Cooden Beach, near Bexhill, is described as a “typical Sussex beach”, with long stretches of shingle.

“But don’t worry, even at high tide there’s still plenty of space for your dog to get off the lead, run in and out of the water and generally have a ball,” Vets Now said.

“Unusually, there is a train station virtually on the beach with trains running to Eastbourne in one direction and Hastings in the other. So you don’t need a car to get there.”

Cooden Beach also has a five-star water quality rating.

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