A wonderful way to beat the heat in our desert summer is to cool off with your dog in a pool, lake or river. Here are some tips to help keep your dog safe around the water.
- Teach your dog to swim. Not all dogs know instinctively how to swim – enlist in a professional swim coach to teach your dog how to swim and who is equipped to handle a dog with a fear of the water, and/or teach them the doggy paddle and swim basics. Never throw your dog into the water for their first swim – it’ll only frighten them so they won’t want to ever swim again.
- Purchase a dog life vest/jacket for that not perfect paddler, and/or anytime you are at a lake, river, or on a boat or SUP. This will provide extra buoyancy to stay afloat, and come with a handle to easily scoop your dog out of the water.
- Confirm with your Veterinarian that your dog is healthy enough to swim. Take care with your seniors. Ask if there are any contraindications to water exercise.
- Never let your dog swim alone. Always have supervision. Watch for signs of water intoxication or heat stroke. Excessive panting, drooling, bloat like appearance and glassy eyes, peeing a lot, extreme thirst, slight wobble or inability to stand. Sometimes these signs don’t show up for @ 30-60 min. after being in the water. Familiarize yourself with the signs and seek Emergency care immediately if you suspect your dog of water intoxication. Although rare, it does happen and can take the life of your pet.
- Learn the invaluable skill of Dog CPR – this could be vital if an accident should occur.
- Fence your pool. Show your dog the exit/stairs or ramp every year.
- Try thinner floatable toys so your dog doesn’t have to open their mouth so wide and ingest more water, to fetch the toy.
- Rinse your dog free from lake water and chlorine or the salt from ocean.
- Dry your dog completely, especially if they have long hair. Do not put their collar back on until their fur and skin is dry, to help prevent hot spots.
- Be aware of ponds or lakes mid to late season after they have warmed up. Blue/green algae can be very dangerous for dogs. These naturally occurring organisms occur in freshwater bodies of water and can look blue-green, or like foam or scum on the water’s surface. If ingested, these algae can produce toxins leading to neurological issues, skin irritation, severe illness or death.
- Have FUN! Be safe!
Kathy Carr
Dogs give unconditionally to their guardians, and it is my honor and privilege to serve them and give back.
