Did you know that today is “Swim a Lap Day?” So in honor of that, I decided to do a little reading on water safety for dogs. I always thought it odd that none of the dogs I have owned enjoyed swimming. I mean, who doesn’t like to cool off with a nice swim on a hot day? A few years ago I got a kiddie pool just for the dogs because they seemed so uncomfortable in the heat. Imagine my surprise when they would not go near it! A few times I actually sat in it myself and I have to admit it felt really good!
I always thought swimming was something that dogs instinctively know how to do and something they like. I now know that I was wrong in assuming this. I have learned that, like humans, dogs are at risk of drowning if they do not know how to swim.
Now that summer is here, water safety is something we should not take lightly. Even if your dog does like to swim, he should always be supervised around pools, beaches, lakes and any other places where there is deep water.
If you own a boat and want to bring your dog and your dog does not know how to swim, (or even if he does), invest in a life preserver. With a quick internet search, you will find many options for life preservers. They are very inexpensive, well worth the money and can also be used in backyard pools. If you do own a pool, it should be securely fenced to keep pets and children out when there is not adequate supervision.
And, no matter how much your dog may enjoy swimming, it is always a good idea to limit time in the water. If he should swim out and become tired, he may not be able to swim back.
Enjoy your summer everyone and please be safe!!
Enjoy your summer everyone and please be safe!!
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