Water Safety This Summer
Summertime is just around the corner! A time when everyone wants to be outside and participate in all sorts of dog-friendly activities. A lot of summer activities include water – whether that is swimming in the pool, beach, or kayaking along the river. Water safety can be overlooked and a detriment to your dog’s health so we compiled a list of safety tips to set you and your puppy pal up for a splash-tactic summer!
1. Hydration
It is extremely important to ensure your pet is provided extra water in the summer to stay hydrated. Carrying around a collapsible water bowl is a great way to ensure you can offer your dog water when they are showing signs of tiredness (ex. panting, red eyes). Hydration is extremely important in preventing heatstroke. A dog can acquire heat stroke if its internal body temperature reaches 103 degrees.
2. Consider the breed
Does your dog have shorter legs? Smaller snouts? Breeds that are more muscular, have a harder time staying afloat and will tire more quickly than breeds that have been bred to swim. If your dog is not a strong swimmer, make sure to supervise them full-time when around pools or lakes. Ultimately, water rules that apply to humans also apply to dogs. Contaminated waters with Blue-green algae or lakes or rivers with strong currents should proceed with extreme caution.
3. Teaching your dog to swim
If you wish to teach your dog to swim this summer, start in shallow bodies of water and gradually increase the difficulty of the environment. Ideally, you will want to start off on a shallow beach with calm waters where the dog can get their toes wet and walk into the water. This provides security and an opportunity to get a feel for the sensation of paddling and floating. Slowly encourage your dog to increase the depth and direct them to paddle back to shore before introducing tougher obstacles such as waves and dock diving. You always want to ensure your dog is enjoying the water and not exerting themselves past their limits!
4. Consider a lifejacket
Whether you are on a boat, on a lake, or kayaking down a river; a lifejacket could help to save your dog. If your dog gets exhausted or accidentally falls into the water, it provides security as you help them to safety. Always make sure your gear is properly fitted and appropriate for your dog. Remember this: swimming for 5 minutes is equivalent to an hour’s walk in terms of exertion.
5. Remove your dog’s collar
Remove your dog’s collar when they are swimming, especially in open bodies of water. This is to make sure that it does not get snagged on a branch or something in the water that could put your dog in distress and harm them. The best style of collar is one with a quick-release buckle. You will be able to take quick action to help your dog in case of an emergency. If your dog is wearing a flea collar, the water could damage the effectiveness and it is best to just remove it before entering the water.
It’s truly a dog’s life during summer. To make sure that everyone is enjoying the warm weather, take preventative action to keep your dog safe so you can enjoy the summer together!