Keeping Pets Safe While Swimming

Safeguarding Pets While Swimming

You and your pet friend want to go swimming to cool down as the summer heat rises. Even though it’s in their name, not all dogs or other pets can “doggy paddle,” so use caution when swimming with your canine companion. Following are five suggestions to keep your pet safe while swimming.

#1: Provide clean drinking water

Your pet is more likely to drink contaminated water that contains chemicals 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 lots of fresh water to satiate their thirst.

#2: Make sure your pet is wearing a life jacket

If your pet is in deep water, make sure they are wearing life jackets to stay afloat without having to rely exclusively on their swimming prowess. Put the vest on before getting in the water to give your pet a chance to become used to it.

#3: Don’t let your pet swim unaccompanied in the water

Keep closely checking your furry friend when swimming because animals can become frightened when left alone in the water.

#4: Teach your animal how to exit the pool

When you aren’t home, if your pet falls into the pool, they might be unable to escape independently. Make sure you have a solid set of stairs your pet can use to exit the pool and that they are familiar with them.

#5: Wash your pet off after swimming

After a swim in a pool or lake, chemicals, viruses, 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 combing these pollutants off their body.

Around bodies of water, accidents can occur, especially if your animal friend leans in for a drink and cannot swim. If your pet has a water-related emergency this summer, get assistance from our staff.