Planning a pool day with your pet this summer? Make sure it’s both fun and safe with our list of pool safety tips. Whether your pet is a natural swimmer or needs some extra help, we have the advice you need to keep them splashing safely this season. Read on to learn more!
As summer arrives, swimming pools become irresistible for both humans and pets alike! But can your furry friend join the pool pawty safely? While many pets love a dip, ensuring their safety demands more than just enthusiasm. Whether your pet is a natural swimmer or needs a helping paw, understanding pool safety is crucial. Read along for essential water safety tips to keep your pet splashing safely this season!
Can pets go for a swim?
Yes, pets can enjoy a swim, but it's not as simple as just letting them jump in. Some pets are natural swimmers, while others need a bit of help. Regardless of their swimming ability, you need to be vigilant about pool safety measures.
First, ensure your dog is comfortable with water. Some dog breeds like pugs and bulldogs, with their short legs and short snouts, might struggle more than others. They are usually comfortable with short, 10-minute paddling sessions in shallow pools and should wear life vests since they are not very strong swimmers.
Any pet can learn to swim, and many are naturally curious about water. Even cats can be taught to swim similarly to dogs, using lots of encouragement and rewards. Always supervise your pet around any body of water, whether it's a saltwater pool, ocean, or lake.
Pool Safety Tips for Pets
- Invest in a Life Jacket: The majority of pet owners think their furry friends are born swimmers. But sadly, that is not the case. Life jackets or life vests are a must-have, especially for breeds that are not natural swimmers. These floatation devices provide buoyancy and can be lifesavers if your dog gets tired.
- Never Leave Your Pet Unattended: The most important thing to remember when your pet is playing in the water is to always keep an eye on them. You can invest in pool covers, pool fences, or a gate to prevent unsupervised access to the pool area. You can also get a pool alarm that will let you know if your pet goes into the water.
- Teach Your Dog to Swim: If you want your dog to be prepared, safe, and confident in the water, consider swimming lessons! Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for dogs, especially older ones with mobility issues. To teach your dog to swim without a trainer, start by carrying them into shallow water and gently lowering them. They might begin paddling their front paws, but this often results in more splashing than swimming.
- Ensure Easy Access: Make sure your dog can get in and out of the pool easily. Pool ramps and pool steps designed for pets can be excellent options. This prevents exhaustion and provides a safe exit route.
- Keep Fresh Water Available: When your pet is tired from being outside and swimming on a hot day, they might try drinking water from the pool to cool down and hydrate. Swimming pools contain chemicals like chlorine that, although very diluted in small quantities, can be harmful in large quantities. To prevent this, always have a water bowl available for them to quench their thirst safely.
- Rinse After Swimming: Chlorine and other pool chemicals can irritate your dog’s skin and fur. Like humans, too much chlorine can dry out your dog's skin. If you see your dog licking their paws after swimming, it might mean their pads are irritated. Rinse your dog off with fresh water after swimming to remove any lingering chemicals and prevent skin irritation and ear infections.
- Watch for Signs of Fatigue: Swimming is a strenuous activity, especially for older dogs or those with health issues. Dogs having fun in the pool might not realize when they’re getting exhausted. If you see their rear end starting to sink, it’s a sign they’re getting tired and need a break. Help them and make sure they have a safe and easy way to get out of the pool.
How to save your pet from drowning?
Even with all precautions, accidents can still happen. If your dog is struggling or has gone underwater, act quickly. Pull them out of the water immediately and check if they are breathing and have a pulse. If your dog is not breathing, perform CPR by giving rescue breaths and chest compressions. According to a recent report, a pet that stays underwater for more than 45 seconds needs immediate veterinary attention. So, please contact your vet as soon as possible for further assistance.
If you think your pet might like swimming, why not give it a try? It's a great way to stay cool and active on hot days when a walk is too much. For more safety tips and advice on pet CPR, consult Dr.Tail. Enjoy the summer with your furry friend!