Keep Your Pets Safe While Swimming

Your furry friend and you probably want to go swimming to cool off as the summer heat rises. Despite what their name suggests, not all dogs or other animals can “doggy paddle,” so use caution when swimming with your canine companion. Here are five recommendations for keeping your pet safe while swimming.

#1: Provide fresh water to drink

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. Before and after swimming, make sure your pet has access to plenty of fresh water to quench their thirst.

#2: Ensure your pet wears a life vest

If your pet is going to be in deep water, ensure they wear a life vest rather than relying solely on their swimming skills to keep them afloat. Try on the vest before heading into the water, so your pet has time to become acclimated to the gear.

#3: Never leave your pet unattended in water

Keep a close eye on your furry friend whenever they are swimming because animals can become frightened when left alone in water.

#4: Show your pet how to get out of the pool

If your pet falls into your pool when you are not around, they may not be able to get out without assistance. Ensure you have a stable set of stairs that your pet can use to climb out of the pool, and ensure they know how to use the stairs.

#5: Rinse off your pet after a swim

After a swim in a pool or lake, chemicals, pathogens, and general dirt and debris can find their way into your pet’s thick coat. After swimming, thoroughly rinse your pet to stop them from grooming these contaminants off their body.

Accidents can happen around bodies of water, especially if your furry pal leans in for a drink and doesn’t know how to swim. If your pet experiences a water-related emergency this summer, contact our team for help.