Five Guidelines for Safe Swimming With Your Pet
You and your furry friend probably want to go swimming to cool off when the summer heat rises. Even though it’s in their name, not all dogs—or other pets—can “doggy paddle,” so use caution when swimming with your canine companion. Here are five suggestions to keep your pet safe while swimming.
#1: Provide clean water for drinking.
Your pet is more likely to drink water that contains chemicals or is contaminated if they go into the pool or another body of water to quench their thirst. Always provide lots of fresh water to fulfill your pet’s thirst before and after swimming.
#2: Make sure your animal companion is wearing a life vest.
If your pet will be in deep water, make sure they are wearing life jackets rather than relying exclusively on their swimming prowess to keep them afloat. Before entering the water, try the vest on so your pet can get used to it.
#3: Never leave your pet unsupervised in the water.
Keep a close check on your furry friend whenever they are swimming because animals can panic if left alone in the water.
#4: Show your pet how to exit the pool.
If your pet falls into your pool when you aren’t home, they might not be able to escape on their own. Make sure you have a solid set of stairs your pet can use to exit the pool and that they are familiar with using them.
#5: After swimming, wash your pet off.
After taking a plunge in a pool or lake, your pet’s thick fur may become contaminated with chemicals, germs, and ordinary dirt and debris. After swimming, thoroughly rinse your pet to keep them from combing these contaminants off their body.
Accidents can occur near bodies of water, especially if your animal friend leans in for a drink and is unable to swim. Contact our staff for assistance if your pet has a water-related problem this summer.