It’s summertime! That means we can spend our days lounging by the pool with our favorite companions, dogs! But just like anyone who heads to the pool, there are a few important rules to follow. Here are the best ways to keep your pup safe around the water while making those summer memories extra special:
Teach Them How to Enter and Exit
Most dogs aren’t natural swimmers, so spend some time showing your doggy exactly where to enter and how to get out safely. Use treats and toys to encourage them, and repeat the process a few times until they’re comfortable. This simple training step can reduce the risk of accidents if they end up in water unexpectedly. Remember to get a dog life vest when training and add more stairs or ramps to help them out around the pool if needed!
Check Their Paws and Ears After Every Dip
After a swim, take a few minutes to inspect their paws for any cuts or irritation, especially if the pool deck is hot or rough. Chlorine and pool chemicals can sometimes dry out paw pads and cause ear infections. Be sure to gently dry out their ears with a towel, especially in breeds with floppy ears. A quick look can prevent small issues from turning into bigger problems.
Learn Pet CPR
No one wants to imagine a worst-case scenario, but knowing how to perform pet CPR can be a literal lifesaver. It’s not the same as human CPR, so you’ll need to read up on Guides, YouTube Tutorials, or take a class on pet CPR. You’ll feel way more prepared around any body of water by knowing what to do!
Maintain Your Pool
A healthy pool benefits you and your companions. Ensure your chemicals are in balance, clean out the debris, and keep those filters running smoothly. If your pets swim frequently, use a hand vacuum with its own internal filter to remove any clumps of dog hair that may have accumulated at the bottom of your pool.
Here are a few other ways to Clean Out Dog Hair in a Pool!
Consider a Pool Fence
A secure pool fence is one of the easiest ways to keep your pup safe. Ensure your fence is tall enough, with no gaps that could allow them to sneak through. You can even ass self-latches or locks to keep your mind at peace.
Research Your Dog’s Swim Time Limit
We all know every breed is different. Some dogs can swim for more than an hour, while others get tired after just 10 minutes. It’s essential to understand your furry friend’s capabilities before you take them into the pool with you.
Here’s a list of doggos that we know can swim easily!
Always Supervise Your Pup
There are several things to consider when having your dog at your pool, but the most important thing is to always supervise your pup when they are playing near the water. This way, you can jump in when needed.