This is Shami today. I told Toby he needed to write about the pool because it is summer time, but he isn’t a huge fan of the pool so he told me to write it!
Oh, Toby wants me to say he’s not afraid of the pool, just not a fan of swimming. Personally, I think he doesn’t know how to swim- you should see how he forgets to paddle his back legs!
That being said, let’s talk about some basic pool tips, and always remember, just like if you have a child, you have to watch your pets around water.
- Make sure your dog knows where the steps are in the pool. Whether you actively plan to let your dog swim with you or not, you need to take the time to teach them where the stairs are. This way, you know that even if they accidentally fall in, they can get out.
- Teach your dog that they can only go in the pool when you are in or around the water with them. They should never go in the pool unattended.
- Pools have chlorine in the water (yes even salt pools). You shouldn’t allow your dog to drink this water as they can get sick. Also, just like you take a shower after swimming all day, you need to rinse the chlorine out of your dog’s coat.
One other thing to note, going back to Toby, you really cannot teach a dog to swim like you can a human. We don’t really understand what you might be telling us to do. the best you can do is make the pool a not-scary-place and encourage us. Yes, deep down in our genetics we probably can swim, but sometimes it just doesn’t come out. Never just toss your dog into a body of water and let it “figure it out”. You’d better be prepared to go in after him!
Also, there are numerous safety devices you can purchase to help keep your dog safe. Additional ramps to help them climb out of the water or a life jacket can help ease any of your nerves about letting your dog in the pool. In fact, if you bring your dog boating at all, they should be wearing life jacket and you should have a ramp on the ride of the boat to help him back in the boat.
That being said, there are big benefits to allowing your dog to swim. Mostly, as a dog ages and hips and joints begin to tire out, swimming is an exercise that alleviates pressure and allows your pet to move freely. The muscles can be conditioned and worked without the stress of hitting the pavement. This is a benefit to a dog who has had any sort of surgery as well (once the stitches are healed). Also, if your dog is overweight, swimming can help provide additional exercise that is too taxing on land.
Happy swimming!
Wet Beards 