Ensuring Pet Safety During Water Activities

by | May 10, 2023

Ensuring Pet Safety During Water Activities

With rising summer temperatures, you and your beloved companion may seek relief by taking a swim. However, not all dogs—or pets in general—possess innate swimming skills, so it’s essential to take appropriate precautions when swimming with your four-legged friend. Here are five tips to help keep your pet safe during aquatic adventures.

Tip #1: Provide access to fresh drinking water

When your thirsty pet enters a pool or any body of water, they may unintentionally consume water containing harmful chemicals or contaminants. Always ensure an ample supply of fresh drinking water is available to quench your pet’s thirst before and after swimming.

Tip #2: Equip your pet with a life vest

If your pet will be in deep water, it’s advisable to outfit them with a well-fitted life vest. This precautionary measure provides additional buoyancy and support, complementing their swimming skills. Before entering the water, introduce the life vest to your pet, allowing them time to adjust to wearing it.

Tip #3: Never leave your pet unattended in water

Pets can experience panic and distress when left alone in water. To ensure their safety, maintain constant vigilance and keep a watchful eye on your furry companion while they are swimming.

Tip #4: Familiarize your pet with pool exits

In the event that your pet accidentally falls into a pool while you’re away, they may struggle to exit without assistance. Establish a stable set of stairs or an accessible exit point that your pet can utilize to climb out of the pool, and ensure they are familiar with using these exits.

Tip #5: Rinse your pet after swimming

After a swim in a pool or lake, your pet’s dense fur can harbor chemicals, pathogens, and general dirt and debris. Thoroughly rinse your pet’s fur to remove these substances, preventing them from ingesting or grooming the contaminants off their body.

Accidents near bodies of water can happen, particularly if your furry companion leans in for a drink without knowing how to swim. If your pet encounters a water-related emergency this summer, reach out to our team for immediate assistance.