Do you enjoy swimming? For many people, there’s just no better way to cool off on a hot day than by taking a dip in the pool. Many dogs also enjoy going swimming. This is of course really cute to watch. You’ll just need to take some precautions to keep your pup safe. A Bethel Acres, OK vet lists some pool safety tips for Man’s Best Buddy below.

Supervision

Keep a very close eye on your canine buddy when he is near water. Follow the same rules you would with a toddler. Rule #1: don’t let Fido out of your sight!

Stairs

Whenever you take Fido to a new pool, immediately show him where the stairs are. This could actually save his life if he were to fall in when nobody’s looking! You’ll want to test him a bit, to make sure it really sinks in. One way to do this is to move away from the stairs and then call him to you. It’s also a good idea to put a visual ‘landmark’ near the stairs, such as a life preserver.

Paws

After dogs have been swimming, the skin on their paw pads will be extremely delicate. Combine that with rough, hot tar and cement, and you have a recipe for a dog paw disaster. Your canine pal could quickly develop burns and abrasions! Use paw balm on Fido’s furry feet, and try to keep him on soft grass.

Water

Fido can get hot and thirsty pretty quickly running and playing near the pool. He may be tempted to slurp up some of the pool water. Chlorine isn’t exactly good for him! Make sure your pooch always has fresh water. (For extra tail wags, give him a cube of frozen sodium-free broth.)

Lifejackets

Not all dogs like swimming. In fact, the water is very dangerous for some pups! If your canine friend can’t swim well, keep a doggy lifejacket on him.

Gates

This one is just a good general safety precaution. Keep pools fenced or gated off when they aren’t in use.

Covers

Did you know that pool covers also pose a risk? There’s always a chance that Fido could try to walk or even run on it, as he may not realize it isn’t a solid surface. As your Bethel Acres, OK animal hospital, we are dedicated to offering great care. Contact us anytime!