SWIMMING WITH DOGS - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
It’s no secret, pups love water! Pools, ponds, the ocean, and even puddles – it’s almost impossible to keep them out of the water! Swimming with dogs is a fun activity that both pups and pup parents love, and helps everyone stay cool in the warm summer months. But, like other activities, there are some considerations and precautions you should take to ensure your pups stays safe and healthy before, during, and after their swim! Read on to learn more about what to consider when you are swimming with dogs!
ALWAYS KEEP FRESH WATER ON HAND
We’ve mentioned this countless times before, but it’s certainly worth mentioning again. Your pup needs a source of fresh water when they are outside, especially on a warm summer day. Swimming takes a lot of energy from pups, and they certainly are going to be thirsty when they are done enjoying the water.
Keep in mind pool water as well as ocean water is not ideal for your pup to drink. Even fresh pond water should not be the primary source of drinking water when you’re swimming with your pup. Make sure to bring plenty of bottled water along and a collapsable bowl so it’s easy for the to drink.
BRIGHT COLORS FOR YOUR PUP
Whether or not your pup uses a life vest, you should ensure they are very visible regardless of the body of water they are in. A swim shirt or even a very brightly colored collar will help you locate your pup quick should you become separated. Although many pups are strong swimmers, it does take a lot of effort, and if they are too far from shore or panicked they may struggle to swim. In this scenario seeing your pup immediately will help ensure you get them out of the water as fast as possible.
USE FLOTATION DEVICES
If your pup is new to swimming, or you are far away from land, a life vest is highly recommended for you pup. This is especially true for pups that go on boat rides. it only take one sharp turn or slip from your pup and they may end up in the water with no land in site. Life vests are highly visible and will help keep your pup afloat until you can reach them.
Pool floats are also a great way to help your pup enjoy the water without swimming all the time. There are pet specific floats that are easy to climb into, but even regular human floats work fine. Please remember a life vest or a float of any kind is not going to keep your pup safe – you must supervise their swim at all times.
RINSE YOUR PUP OFF AFTER A SWIM
It may seem redundant to give your pup a rinse or a bath after a swim, but it’s a healthy choice for them. Pools have chemicals that can cause skin irritation, and lakes may have bacteria that you do not want on your pup. Even the ocean’s salt water can have a drying effect on your pups skin, and cause dehydration if they are excessively licking their fur clean.
A quick rinse from a garden hose, or even a full blown bath is the best way to make sure your pup stays safe once they have enjoyed cooling off and exercising in the water.
SWIMMING WITH DOGS - SUMMERTIME FUN
Swimming with dogs is just simply a great time, especially during the warm summer months. As with any activity, it’s very important to consider your pup’s safety and health before, during, and after the swim.
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