Anyone who has a pool and pets, especially dogs, knows that it is common to find their dog in the pool . In fact, some owners have to put up covers to prevent their dog from spending all their time playing in the water.
Some breeds are especially fond of water, like Golden Retrievers, for example. But is this situation safe? What precautions should we take? Can all breeds swim? If you have ever asked yourself any of these questions, this text is for you!
In this article, we will answer the most common questions about dogs in the pool, with practical tips that will increase your pet’s safety, without affecting your fun time. Check it out!
Can dogs go into the pool?
Yes, dogs can (and should) go into the pool if they are interested in this activity. However, it is important for owners to keep in mind that they should not be forced to swim if they do not want to.
Some breeds are more interested in water, while others do not enjoy this activity. Dogs with flat noses, such as Pugs and Bulldogs , for example , may have difficulty breathing and swimming, so extra care must be taken.
What precautions should be taken when taking your dog to the pool?
Some precautions should be taken to minimize the risk of encountering problems with your dog in the pool. Below, we highlight some of them. Check them out!
Provide fresh, clean water for him to drink.
Before taking your dog to play in a pool, the first thing to do is keep him hydrated . To avoid (or reduce) ingesting pool water — which contains chlorine — offer him fresh, clean water before and after the swim.
Don’t assume your dog can swim
While there is a common understanding that all dogs can swim, this is not reflected in practice. Although dogs have a natural reflex to paddle in water, this does not mean that they can swim efficiently or safely.
Therefore, if your pet has never had contact with pool water, the first thing to consider is whether he is interested and can swim on his own.
Observe the water temperature
Just like us, dogs also feel cold and heat. Therefore, if the water is too cold, the dog may feel uncomfortable and avoid getting into the pool. Ideally, the water temperature should be pleasant, neither too cold nor too hot.
It is worth noting that the water temperature can affect your pet’s health, as very cold water can cause thermal shock, leading to respiratory problems and hypothermia. When it is too hot, it can cause dehydration and overheating.
Use sunscreen
Although few pet owners know it, using sunscreen on pets is just as important as it is on humans. In this case, the product helps protect the dog’s sensitive skin in the heat, acting against the action of UV rays, preventing burns that can cause pain and discomfort.
But be careful, here it is worth considering an important precaution, when choosing the sunscreen, use those formulated specifically for dogs, with sun protection with SPF 30 or higher and waterproof.
Whenever possible, talk to the veterinarian responsible for your pet’s health care to obtain specific guidance on using the most appropriate product for your pet.
Don’t leave your dog alone in the pool
Never leave your dog alone in the pool, even if he knows how to swim and is used to the water. Constant supervision is essential to ensure your pet’s safety, as several risks are associated with this activity, such as:
- drowning from fatigue;
- disorientation;
- hypothermia;
- intoxication;
- injuries that may make it difficult to get out of the water alone.
In addition, the owner must ensure that the dog knows how to get in and out of the pool safely on its own. Ideally, the pool should be shaped to facilitate access. If this is not the case, install a ladder or ramp that the animal can use.
Invest in a life jacket
If your dog is not a good swimmer or if you are unsure, use a life jacket suitable for dogs. It is also a good idea to place floating accessories in the water so that if he has difficulty or gets tired, he can rest on the vest.
What precautions should be taken after the pet leaves the pool?
Once your pet has finished playing in the pool, the owner needs to take a series of precautions. The first of these is bathing. Rinse your dog’s fur thoroughly with clean, fresh water, then give him a full bath with shampoo and conditioner. You need to remove all the chlorine and chemicals present in the pool from your dog’s skin and fur.
Then, dry your dog’s fur well with a towel and, if necessary, use a hairdryer on a low temperature, keeping a safe distance so as not to burn the animal’s skin .
Check and clean the ears carefully to remove excess water and prevent infection. Clean your dog’s eyes with a cotton ball soaked in saline solution to remove chlorine and other irritants.
After cleaning, offer fresh, clean water, as hydration is essential to replace fluids lost during activity, preventing dehydration.
Then, offer your dog a light, nutritious meal and let him rest. Swimming is a high-impact activity and can be very tiring, so give him time to rest and recover.
For animals that are not used to this type of activity, it is recommended that the owner observe their behavior in the hours following the dive. If you notice any signs of discomfort, such as vomiting , diarrhea , apathy or difficulty breathing, seek veterinary care immediately.
As you have seen, there are many precautions that must be taken before, during and after your dog’s physical activities in the pool . With prevention and dedication, it is possible to promote fun activities without putting your pet’s health at risk.
