Pool Safety for Pets

In these hot summer temperatures, there isn't much to (comfortably) do outside other than spend time in the pool. Swimming can be a great outdoor activity for people and pets, but it's important to consider safety first! In this blog, we'll cover some cautions and considerations to take while swimming with your pets this summer.

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A Quick Word of Caution

As a general rule, no matter how often your pet swims, we always recommend supervising pets when they are spending time outside around an uncovered/unfenced swimming pool. Accidental drownings can occur for a number of reasons regardless of how strong a swimmer you pet usually is, so it's best to treat them with the same consideration you would a small child around an open pool.

Make Sure They Know How To Get Out

One of the most important things to teach your pets if you have a pool, whether they are frequent simmers or not, is how to get out of the pool. Not all pets who wind up in the pool got there on purpose - It's possible for dogs to fall in when walking too close to the edge or leaning over trying to get a drink of water, and it's crucial that they know how to find their way back out. If you have a pool that is accessible to your pets, be sure to practice by bringing them into the water with you and guiding them to the exit points (usually the shallow end or steps).

Monitor Their Pool Activity

Sometimes pets are so caught up in having fun while playing that they don't realize how tired they are until they are feeling exhausted. This can occur with pets who love to play in the pool, especially those who are actively swimming or jumping in and out of the pool. Be sure to take frequent breaks in between throwing toys into the water or bringing your pet inside to ensure that they don't wear themselves out while in the water which may make it difficult for them to make it back to the edge or shallow end.

Breed Matters!

Not all dogs are natural-born swimmers, and not all dogs enjoy being around or in the water! While some breeds, like labradors or golden retrievers, often love to be in the water and could swim all day, other breeds, such as french bulldogs or english bulldogs, may find it difficult or impossible to swim based on their unique builds. If you have a breed that is less buoyant but still loves to play in the water then sprinkler toys, kiddie pools, or inflatable splash pads are great water-based activities that pets can enjoy while safely on land.

Don't Force It

While swimming with your pup might sound like a blast to you, it's important to be mindful of your pet's behavior around water and their comfort level. Pets who seem shy or nervous around the water pay prefer watching the pool activities from afar, and forcing your pet into the pool may created more anxiety and stress around the water.

For questions or concerns please contact us at 972-347-6100.

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