Dog Safety in the Pool: Helpful Tips, Essential Accessories and More

If in the summer the dog will always be near the pool, special attention should be paid to safety issues, because not all dogs can swim.

How to make your dog’s entertainment in the pool safe, how to prepare your pet for swimming and what inflatable products will provide him with maximum safety?

What to do if the dog wants to swim in the pool

Is it safe for a pet to swim in a chlorinated pool? Americanclubdog breeding replies, “Yes, but with some precautions.” First of all, it is important to make sure that the pool is interesting for the dog. Signs indicating that four-legged friend wants to swim, are increased interest at the sight of a toy thrown into the water or the manifestation of natural curiosity at the steps leading to the pool. In addition, the pet may try to gently touch the water with its paw.

If the dog shows interest, it is important to encourage this, but in no case make him jump into the water by calling him by name and showing with gestures that he can jump. As soon as the pet is in the water, his natural instincts will work and he will start rowing. Perhaps at first, while the dog is just getting used to the pool, the owner will have to guide him so that he can find the nearest exit – steps or a ramp.

If your dog swims in a pool, the AKC recommends taking the following precautions:

• Rinse your dog quickly with a garden hose after leaving the pool to remove chemicals and sunscreen residue from their coat.
• after swimming, wipe the inside of the ears with a towel to reduce moisture build-up, which can cause ear problems;
• keep a bowl of fresh cool water next to the pool water that a dog can drinkso that she does not try the water from the pool.

Pets must be supervised while swimming. They, too, can get tired and begin to bark in fright and fight in the water from fear. It is important to be ready to help at any time.

Inflatables, fences and vests for dogs

Pet safety in the pool starts with careful preparation. Firstly, it is better to make sure that without the knowledge of the owner, the pet could not get into the pool. To do this, you can install a fence around the pool with a lockable gate or use a protective cover to protect against children. You can also set up an alarm. It works on the basis of motion or vibrations on the surface of the water and emits a sound signal or even sends a message to the application on the phone. The alarm will let you know that it is necessary to check the pool for unforeseen activity.

As for the safety of the dog, it should have the following protective accessories:

• Life vest. It is worn on the dog in much the same way as a sweater, and keeps it afloat. Such vests are often equipped with a handle on top to make it easier to fish the animal out of the water. Life jackets are popular with boaters who take their pets on boat trips.
• Inflatable pool toys. Some dogs love to be lazy and drift on the surface of the water, just like humans! Inflatable pet toys are made from durable fabric that can withstand the claws of four-legged friends and the most active play. Do not use inflatable toys to lure a dog that cannot swim or is afraid of water into the water. Instead, it’s best to leave her on dry land where she feels safe.
• Pool ramp. If the pool is equipped with stairs that the dog cannot climb, it is better to install a ramp. This will give the pet the ability to enter and exit the water at any time without assistance.

If your four-legged friend is interested in water, but not ready to take a dip in the pool, why not make him his own little oasis? A small pet pool can be easily placed on the lawn in the country. Let him explore at his leisure, and the owner will be there to say encouraging words and praise. As soon as the dog feels ready for a large body of water, you can test for the ability to swim in the pool. To do this, you need to put a life jacket on the dog and teach it to enter the water and exit the stairs or ramp. After some time, it will be possible to enjoy water activities with the whole family.

See also:

• Games with a dog who loves to swim
• Rules for safe swimming with a dog on a boat
• Why does your dog need physical activity?