Swimming instructor offers three strategies to ensure your dog's safety in water (second suggestion raises some intriguing considerations!)
Dog Pool Safety: Expert Advice from Melissa Goodman of Mission Pawsitive
Dogs and swimming pools can make for a fun and refreshing summertime combination. However, it's essential to ensure your furry friend stays safe while enjoying a dip. Certified dog trainer Melissa Goodman of Mission Pawsitive shares her expert tips on pool safety for dogs.
Firstly, Goodman advises that these guidelines are for dogs who are already comfortable swimming in pools. For new swimmers, a life jacket can be beneficial, especially in open bodies of water. This safety measure can help minimize risks and ensure your dog's wellbeing.
Goodman emphasizes the importance of supervision, always keeping a close eye on your dog while they're in or near the pool to prevent accidents or drowning. Teaching your dog how to enter and exit the pool safely is also crucial. Using stairs or a ramp specifically designed for dogs can help make this process smoother and safer.
Gradual acclimation to the pool water is another key aspect of pool safety. Introducing your dog to the water slowly can help reduce anxiety and make the experience more enjoyable for them. Ensuring your dog has access to fresh drinking water is also important, as pool water may contain chemicals that can be harmful if ingested.
Easy and visible ways for your dog to get out of the pool at any time are essential to prevent them from getting trapped or exhausted. Post-swim care is equally important, as rinsing your dog off after swimming can help remove chlorine or salt that can irritate their skin and paws.
Monitoring your dog for signs of distress, fatigue, or injury is crucial. If you notice any unusual behaviour, intervene promptly to ensure your dog's safety.
Goodman advises against dogs trying to climb out of the side of the pool, as this can lead to injury. Instead, a long line can help keep a dog safe and minimize the risk of accidents when learning to swim. Using front paws more while swimming can cause a dog to go vertical, using more energy and potentially leading to drowning. To conserve energy and prevent panic, Goodman recommends that dogs use all four legs equally while swimming.
By following these guidelines, you can help keep your dog safe, happy, and healthy around pools. If you need more detailed information, it’s best to consult resources directly from Mission Pawsitive or Melissa Goodman. Enjoy a fun and safe summer with your furry friend!
- A life jacket can be beneficial for new swimming dogs, especially in open bodies of water to minimize risks and ensure their wellbeing.
- Supervision is crucial when dogs are in or near the pool, as it helps prevent accidents or drowning.
- Teaching your dog how to enter and exit the pool safely is important, using stairs or a ramp specifically designed for dogs can make this process smoother and safer.
- Ensuring your dog has access to fresh drinking water is important, as pool water may contain chemicals that can be harmful if ingested.
- Easy and visible ways for your dog to get out of the pool at any time are essential to prevent them from getting trapped or exhausted.
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