Splash Safely: Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe in Pools, Lakes, Streams, and the Beach

Introduction

With the coming of summer, you've probably got your mind on the water, thinking about relaxing in a nice cold pool, hiking up to a lake, rafting in a river, or just kicking back and soaking in some sun on the beach. You're probably thinking about bringing Fido along with you for the adventure because why not? He'd love to enjoy the summer heat with some water, too! Before you strap the leash on there are some things that you need to consider about water safety and your furry friend. Because, after all, everyone wants to have a worry free, fun time in the water!

Does My Dog Know How to Swim?

There is a myth that all dogs know how to swim. This just isn’t true! Before diving right in here are a few ways to make sure your dog can swim.

• First and foremost, your dog has to know how to swim! It’s best to use a pool with a slope, or a lake where they can comfortably pace themselves at their own speed instead of a quick drop off or rough waters. Be sure to come prepared with lots of treats and toys, remember, it's supposed to be a fun experience! Be sure that it's an area that you're comfortable with and allows dogs, because if you're stressing out, so is Fido!

• Start off with the shallow waters and throw the ball into the water, it helps if you're in the water also so he knows that it's safe. If he comes in to retrieve the toy, reward him with a treat! You can also walk into the water holding the dog, let him know that it's okay and that it’s safe. Let him hover above the water until he starts to kick his feet and release him. Know your dog’s limits and don't let him swim too much the first time.

• We recommend putting your dog on a long line (20 or 30 foot leash) in case you need to quickly help them.

• Once you are comfortable with his ability you can let him try it on his own. But remember, never let your dog swim alone or stray very far your side. Finally, if your dog needs to be on or in the water for long periods of time you may want to consider a canine life jacket.

Keep Your Dog Safe Around Your Pool

While pools can be fun, they have the same dangers for a dog as it does a human. 

• If your dog has free access to your yard, you may want to consider a pool alarm. Even an experienced swimmer can become distressed. Just like a child, never leave your dog unattended near your pool.

• Be sure that your dog has a way to exit the pool. Many pools only have ladders. Your dog will need a way to exit the pool under his own power.  Also, keep their nails trimmed as the nails can potentially cut the pool lining which could result in damage to the liner.

• Dogs are more sensitive to pool chemicals, be sure to keep an eye on him after swimming. The pool chemicals can irritate his ears, eyes, nose, and skin so be sure to always rinse your dog off with fresh water after he is done in the pool and be sure to dry his ears out as wet ears will lead to an ear infection. Be sure to thoroughly dry the webbing on his paws.

• Don’t let your drink the pool water. Drinking the water can cause diarrhea, but it's unlikely anything else will come from it. Keep plenty of fresh cold water around to discourage your dog from drinking the pool water.

• A dog swimming in the pool is going to mean extra hair in the filter, so the filter may need to be cleaned more often.

Taking Your Dog to His Favorite Swimming Hole

Many of us love taking our dogs to a favorite watering hole. Lakes and rivers can be a lot of fun with your dog, but it could also be a vet trip if you're not prepared properly. Here are a few things to keep in mind when taking your dog out for a swim.

• Freshwater bodies can be dangerous because of the uncertainty of what is in the water; organisms, chemicals, human and animal waste, gasoline and oil from boats. Parasites that can be ingested from drinking the water or eating blooms or plant life pose a big threat. Marshy, muddy, or stagnant pools of water are particularly dangerous. Be sure to keep an eye on your dog and provide him with plenty of clean drinking water and lead him away from natural sources of water. He could potentially get a parasite that can be spread through feces, which means you or your other animals can catch the parasite as well. If you see any vomiting, seizures, diarrhea, or lethargy be sure to take him to a vet right away. If untreated your dog may experience kidney damage, liver failure, nervous system damage, and death. If caught soon enough, Fido will be fine!

• If you decide to take your dog to a river, be careful of fast moving water. Consider buying your dog a water safety vest. Even the surest of swimmers can get exhausted in rough waters. Also, be sure your dog has a place to exit the water easily. 

• You may want to consider putting your dog on a long line (20 or 30 foot leash) in case you need to quickly help them.

• Be considerate when letting your dog off leash. Be sure your dog is well trained and will respond to your commands.

• Be prepared for transporting your dog back home. Don’t forget to bring plenty of towels to dry your dog off and have something to protect your car from the water and mud your dog will track in.

• After coming home from a trip to the lake or river, give your dog a full head to toe; rinse him off with fresh water and be sure to dry his ears as soon as possible, check his pads for cuts, check his skin for ticks, and brush him to get possible thorns or plant life off his body.

Going to the Beach with Your Dog

Who doesn't love a trip to the beach? You and your dog can have a great day at the beach if you come prepared.

• Do your research; make sure the beach you want to go to is dog friendly. Be sure to follow all the rules of the beach. Keep an eye out for buried objects in the sand like garbage, broken glass, old fishing gear, food, and even jelly fish. Respect the other people on the beach and everyone will be sure to have a good time!

• Dogs burn too! Especially light colored dogs and short haired dogs. Be sure to bring along dog friendly sunscreen that you can rub on their noses and their ears. Make sure the sunscreen doesn't contain zinc, it's toxic to dogs. Always be sure to bring an umbrella to provide shade and provide plenty of fresh drinking water.

• The hot sand on the beach or the planks of the boardwalk can burn your dog’s pads, just like it burns your feet, if it's too hot for you to walk on, it's too hot for them! There is a product called Musher’s Secret that provides protection for your dog’s pads. Be sure to rinse your dog’s paws after a day at the beach to remove sand and other debris from the webbing.

• When your dog is in the water, be sure to monitor the conditions. A strong surf can be dangerous even if your dog is a strong swimmer. Don’t let your dog drink the salt water. You don't know what contaminants are in it and also salt water will dehydrate your dog.

• Consider buying your dog a water safety vest. Even the surest of swimmers can get exhausted in rough waters

• You may want to consider putting your dog on a long line (20 or 30 foot leash) in case you need to quickly help them.

• Always remember to have an ID tag on your dog, just in case. Bring the essentials; food, water, poop bags, and a first aid kit. Knowing the dangers will help you to avoid them and keep everyone happy and healthy this summer. Go out and soak in some rays with your furry friend!

Your dog will love spending time outdoors with you this summer and many dogs do love the water. These tips can ensure a safe and enjoyable time for all. Happy Summer and stay safe!