When we travel to the beach or the lake it’s great to bring Fido or Buster along to enjoy the day. Most dogs like to have fun in the water just like we do. But, it’s also important to know how to keep your dog safe around water so that no harm comes to him. Dogs such as Whippets and Grey Hounds have very little body fat so may have difficulty staying afloat. They may also have problems regulating their body temperature and respirations.
Labradors and Retrievers are know as "water dogs" but even they can have trouble in the water if overweight, in poor health, elderly, or generally out of shape.Even a great swimmer may become tired and unable to float.
Here are some tips to provide water safety around your pool and any other bodies of water.
We always see shows or commercials with dogs playing happily in the drink. All dogs don’t like water. Some that do may not be able to swim as well as other dogs if at all. It is important to remember these things when taking your dog around any body of water.
When a dog swims he must paddle quickly with all four legs. This motion in the water can tire them out quickly, especially a small dog or a dog with shorter legs. Muscle tiredness that occurs in the middle of a lake or pool could spell disaster for your pet. Without the strength to make it out of the water, pets often drown when no one is watching.
It is assumed that all dogs are terrific natural swimmers but this is not true. The first time that you introduce your dog to water, go slowly. That way you can look for signs of nervousness or that he just doesn’t take to water very well.
Don’t ever throw a dog or other pet into the water. The shock method does not work and can injure or traumatize your dog. A stunt of this nature can also make your dog weary of trusting you.
Start in the shallow end of the pool. Calling their name may coax them to the side of the pool. You can lure them in with favorite toys or treats. Once they are in the pool or lake, hold his mid section and let him begin to paddle.
Keep hold of your dog the first few times in the water. They will be more likely to come into the water again if you don’t force them to swim. As they get a rhythm to their paddling, simply hold your hand underneath of them in case they begin to sink.
The hind legs may sink below the water. Lift their rear a little bit to encourage them to float and support their hind end. Whenever your dog is in the water, stay close to them. Since they can’t speak, you won’t know that they are tired unless you see them start to sink.
Hold your dog above water and guide them back to shore or the side of the pool. Large dogs will be even heavier with a wet coat. Have another adult standing by to help you get the dog out of the pool. Dog life jackets keep your dog afloat if he ever gets in trouble in the water.
Dogs should not drink seawater or chlorinated pool water. Sea water will make them and humans sick if they ingest it. The chemicals in pool water are not good for dogs either. In case of thirst, have a bowl of fresh water somewhere close so that he can drink after his hard swim.
Don’t’ forget to wash him off. All chemicals and other things will be washed off, preserving the health of their skin and coat. Dry his ears to so they won’t become a breeding ground for bacteria. Swimming with your dog can be fun when you take a few precautions to keep him safe.
Dog life vests are worth the purchase price. They come in all sizes, colors and styles. Have your dog properly fitted for a life-vest . This may be what saves your dogs life if things go "bad" in the water. In large bodies of water there are no Coast Guide regulations regarding dogs wearing a life-vest that's left to you the owner of the dog to decide.
Don't overestimate your dogs ability to swim. Your dog may become anxious and jump out of the boat. They could just fall overboard and/or be pulled by riptides, currents and fast moving water. It's a important decision.
