Five Guidelines for Swimming With Your Puppy in Safety

Your canine friend and you probably want to go swimming to cool down as the summer heat rises. Take the necessary precautions when swimming with your pet because, despite what their name suggests, not all dogs or other animals can “doggy paddle.” These are five recommendations for keeping your pet safe while swimming.

#1: Make available clean drinking water

If your pet goes into the pool or another body of water to quench their thirst, they are more likely to drink polluted or chemically-laced water. Always provide a lot of fresh water for your pet to drink before and after swimming to quench their thirst.

#2: Check that your pet is wearing a life vest

Instead of relying exclusively on their swimming prowess to keep them afloat when your pet is in deep water, make sure they are wearing life jackets. Before entering the water, try on the vest so your pet can get used to the equipment.

#3: Never leave a pet alone in the water

Always keep an eye on your furry friend when they are swimming because animals can panic if left alone in the water.

#4: Teach your pet how to exit the swimming pool

If your pet falls into your pool while you are away, they might not be able to escape on their own. Make sure your pet can exit the pool using a sturdy set of stairs, and make sure they are familiar with the stairs.

#5: After swimming, rinse your pet off

After a swim in a pool or lake, your pet’s thick fur may become contaminated with chemicals, diseases, and general dirt and debris. To avoid your pet combing these pollutants off their body after swimming, thoroughly clean your pet’s fur.

Accidents can occur near bodies of water, particularly 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.