Swimming With Fido

Summer is just around the corner. Many of you are looking forward to those fun seasonal activities. Swimming and boating are at the top of that list for a lot of people … and a lot of pups. Swimming can be a great activity for our canine pals. However, you’ll need to make sure to put your pup’s safety first. A local Springville, UT vet offers some advice on swimming with your dog in this article.

Is It Safe For Dogs To Go Swimming?

Ultimately, that depends on the dog. For some pooches, swimming is a great option. It offers Fido a wonderful cardio workout. Plus, because the water supports his weight, is easy on his bones and joints. Many dogs also love it. In fact, with some breeds, such as Retrievers, you may have a hard time getting your pet to come out of the water.

That said, swimming definitely isn’t the best option for all dogs. In fact, it’s downright dangerous for some. Brachycephalic dogs, for instance, should never be encouraged to swim. Because these pups have such short air passages, swimming is extremely dangerous. For one thing, they can get out of breath very quickly. Brachys are also at risk of inhaling water, which can lead to dry drowning. (More on that later.) 

Very small dogs can also get into trouble very easily, even in shallow water. Given that Fido may be over his head in a few feet—or even a few inches—of water, they can get into trouble very fast. Not only are they in danger of exhausting themselves, they can get swept away in even shallow currents. 

Swimming is also unsafe for dogs with long backs, such as Corgis and Dachshunds. Other pups that may not do well in the water include large dogs, senior dogs, young puppies, and, of course, any dog with chronic medical issues. There are also plenty of pups that want nothing to do with getting wet.

Last but not least, you’ll also need to be careful when approaching swimming holes here in Utah. You and your pup could very well encounter snakes or other hazards on the way.

If you aren’t sure whether swimming is appropriate for your pup, talk to your vet. Keep in mind that Fido may still enjoy wading or splashing around in a kiddie pool, or playing in a sprinkler or fountain.

What Is Dry Drowning?

Dry drowning—or secondary drowning, as it is also called—is what happens when a pooch inhales water. This can cause severe respiratory distress, and, unfortunately, can even be life-threatening. It also can set the stage for pneumonia. 

The scary thing is that dry drowning can happen hours—or even days—after Fido inhales the water. If your pet has ever had a near-drowning incident, or even just seemed to inhale water or choke for a second, seek immediate veterinary care … even if he seems fine.

Additionally, here are the signs to watch for.

• Distress
• Lethargy
• Coughing
• Respiratory Issues
• Reduced interest in food and/or play

If you notice any of these, contact your Springville, UT pet clinic immediately. 

Is Pool Chlorine Bad For Dogs?

Chlorine isn’t super dangerous. At least, it should be fine for your pet to swim in a chlorinated pool, though you’d want to rinse him off after. However, you definitely don’t want Fido drinking pool water. A sip or two probably won’t hurt him, but too much can lead to issues, such as vomiting. Make sure your pet always has fresh water near the pool, and don’t let him drink out of the pool.

Do Dogs Know How To Swim? 

While some pups do take to the water like adorable furry ducks, others have to be eased into swimming. This varies greatly from pup to pup. Even if your canine pal is a breed that usually loves the water, he will need at least a few lessons.

There are some things to keep in mind here. First and foremost? Never throw your dog into the water and expect that he will figure out how to swim. This is extremely dangerous. Even if Fido does figure out the doggy paddle fairly quickly, he may very well be traumatized by the situation, and may walk away with a lifelong fear of water.

Instead, you want to ease him into it. Go to a shallow pool, or perhaps a swimming slope with a gentle slope. Coax your pet into the water, and support him gently as he is figuring it out. Incorporate lots of compliments to help him form a positive approach. (Save the treats for later, when your pet has all four paws back on solid ground.)

How Do I Keep My Dog Safe At The Pool?

Generally, the same safety rules apply for Fido as you would use for a young child. The main thing is to never ever leave your canine pal unsupervised by the water, even for a minute.

One thing we can’t stress enough is the importance of teaching your pet where the pool stairs are. This could save his life! If Fido were to ever slip and fall in when there is no one around, he could be in serious danger! Don’t just show him once. You need to be sure that the memory really sinks in. Show him again and again, and make sure he remembers. One way to test this is to go to the opposite side of the pool from the stairs and call him to you.

We would also strongly suggest that you somehow mark the pool stairs. You don’t need to go buy a giant statue of a bone: you can use a potted plant or life preserver, or just move your deck chairs over there. The key is to make some sort of visual marker that will help your canine pal locate the exit if he ever falls in.

There are also a few pieces of safety equipment you would want to incorporate. Fido should definitely have a doggy life jacket. Even if he’s a good swimmer, you’d want to have this on hand in case you ever take him out on a boat or go camping near a river. Doggy pool stairs are also fairly inexpensive.

Another thing that can really help is to keep your pool gated off when it’s not in use. This is also just a good idea in general, especially if you have young kids around.

Last but not least, be careful with pool covers. Fido sometimes mistakes them for solid ground, and may step out onto them. If the cover won’t hold your furry pal’s weight, he’d be in very serious danger.

What Do I Do After My Dog Gets Out Of The Water?

Regardless of where Fido has been swimming, it’s a good idea to rinse him down after he’s done. After he’s dried off, a good brushing may be in order.

You’ll also need to be careful with your canine pal’s feet, especially when he first gets out of the water. Just like our skin, dogs’ paws get very delicate when they are wet. Combine that with scorching hot and/or hard, rocky ground, and you’ve got a pup who is very susceptible to burns and blisters. Use paw balm to protect those cute toe beans. 

Make An Appointment At Your Springville, UT Animal Hospital

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your local Springville, UT animal clinic, anytime.