Pool Safety for Dogs

Does your dog like swimming? Our canine companions are rather divided on this topic. Just like people, some pups love the water, and others are just frightened of it. Regardless of what camp Fido falls into, you’ll need to take some precautions whenever bringing your pooch around a pool. Read on for some great pool safety tips from a local Wichita, KS vet.

Swim Lessons

Some dogs are natural swimmers, but this is by no means universal. You may need to teach Fido how to swim. Support your furry buddy as he’s learning, and encourage him with praise and compliments.

Exit Here

One of the most important things you can do is to make sure that your four-legged friend knows how to get out of the pool. Otherwise, he could be in serious trouble if he were to fall in when no one is looking. Spend some time on this training, and test Fido’s memory a bit. Go to the opposite end of the pool, across from the stairs, and call him to you. It’s also good to mark the steps somehow. Hang a life preserver there, or put a potted tree near the stairs.

Doggy Lifejacket

If your canine buddy isn’t a good swimmer, you’ll need to take extra precautions. Get Fido a doggy lifejacket. (If you want to both keep your pup safe and provide yourself with some entertainment, choose one with a shark fin on it.)

Pet Stairs

Do you have an above-ground pool? Get Fido his own set of stairs to help him get in and out of the water. This is also something you can put into the deep end of a regular pool.

Coverings

Pool coverings can also be dangerous. The issue here is that Fido may not understand that it isn’t a solid surface, and could try to walk on it. If the cover can’t support his weight, he’d be in serious danger! We recommend keeping pools fenced off when they aren’t in use, just as you would with a toddler.

Paws

Dogs’ paws are very delicate when they’re wet, just as our feet are after a bath. Use paw balm to protect Fido’s feet. Also, don’t let him run around on rocks, tar, or concrete just after going swimming.

As your Wichita, KS animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering great care. Please feel free to contact us anytime!