In the summertime, you may want to jump into the water a lot and bring your dog with you. Here are a few tips for keeping your dog safe when you are around water this summer:
#1 Never Throw Your Dog In
First, you should never throw your dog into a pool of water. Don't assume that your dog wants to swim. Throwing them into the water can surprise your dog and your dog may not be ready to swim. This can also break your dog's trust in you. Allow your dog to naturally get into the water when they are ready.
#2 Don't Assume Your Dog Will Like The Water
Not all dogs being in the water and some dog breeds are not really built for swimming in the water, especially in bodies of water with strong currents. Dogs with longer snouts and larger legs, like golden retrievers, are more likely to enjoy swimming in the water than dogs such as pugs that have short legs. Your vet should be able to tell you if your breed of dog generally likes the water or not. Show your dog to the water, but don't make them swim or stay in the water if they don't enjoy it or can't handle it.
#3 Teach Your Dog How To Use A Pool
If you let your dog swim in a pool, you need to teach them how to use the pool. Most pools have stairs in them that your dog can use to access the water. Teach your dog how to walk down the stairs into the pool and how to walk out of the pool. Practice this with your dog until they natural know to use the steps to get in and out of the water.
#4 Make Sure Your Dog Takes A Break
Swimming can be really tiring for your dog, especially if they swim for an extended period of time or if they swim somewhere with a current. It is important that you make sure that your dog takes a break every once in a while. If your dog gets too tired, especially in a large body of water, your dog could actually drown. Make sure your dog takes breaks and has access to fresh drinking water when you take them swimming. The water in lakes and rivers may not be that clean, and water in pools contains chemicals that your dog should not drink.
Contact a vet hospital like Erz Animal Hospital for more information and assistance.
