Swimming
Safety Tips for Your Dog
Swimming is a great way to exercise your dog.
It’s fun, it’s low impact and it’s a nice way to stay cool on those really hot
days. But like everything else that’s fun in this world there are a few dangers
to watch out for. If you’re going to take your dog swimming, there’s a few
things to keep in mind.
1. Don’t Assume All
Dogs Can Swim
Not all dogs can swim!
Some dogs take to the water like naturals, but others don’t have the physical
capacity to swim effectively (they sink like a rock). Much of your dog’s ability to swim depends on
his body shape. Big chested breeds with short legs, such as the Bulldog, are
known to have a hard time staying afloat. And those with flat faces, such as
the Pug, are prone to breathing problems that
leave them easily fatigued. And very small dogs, such as Chihuahuas, can get
overwhelmed by big waves or strong currents.
Life jackets are so important as emergency situations can happen when
you least expect it.
2. Teaching Your Dog
to Swim… take it slow and easy!
Not all dogs are going
to jump right in, many will need some convincing that it’s not such a scary
thing after all. Again…take it slow and
easy! Here’s a hint! 1.
Encourage your dog to follow you into shallow water. 2. Praise
him as he follows you in and keep encouraging him to follow you around. Once
your dog seems comfortable in shallow water you can try coaxing him out a
little further with one of his favorite toys. Keep up the praise as he follows
you around to show him that there’s nothing to be afraid of. Don’t force them if they’re not ready, let
them get in and explore at their own pace. Some dogs will take to it right
away, while others will require a few wading sessions before they’re confident
enough to venture out and try swimming on their own.
3. Get Your Dog a Life
Vest
Very important! Dogs that are learning how to swim should
wear a life jacket for safety. Some dogs that have a hard time staying afloat,
or for those that are nervous in the water, a life jacket is recommended at all
times to help keep them safe. I have two
wonderful swimmers, but at our lake, the boats go flying by leaving a very
large wave behind. I don’t want to take
a chance on losing one in the wake of a boat. There are many breeds that
just don’t do well in the water. Some
big chested breeds with short legs will struggle with swimming. A bulldog is a
great example. They have a tendency sink
in deep water, so wearing a life jacket helps give them the ability to stay
above water. Dogs that are nervous in
the water have a higher risk of becoming fatigued. When dogs panic their
respiration and ability to swim become compromised, which increases the
likelihood of drowning. Wearing a life jacket can help keep them safe.
Dogs, even experienced swimmers, may become
overwhelmed by strong currents or waves. If you’re going to take your dog
to the beach when the waters are rough get them a life jacket for their own
safety.
If you are worried about getting the right
size, bring them by GoodDog and we will help get a good fit for your pet.
4. Don’t Let Your Dog
Drink from Lakes or Ponds
Whenever you take your dog swimming be sure to
bring plenty of fresh water to keep them hydrated. Lakes, ponds, swamps and
rivers are full of organisms that can be harmful to your dog. In mild cases
these organisms can lead to diarrhea, but in severe cases such as Leptospira, they
can be fatal. In addition to bacteria
many lakes and rivers are treated with pesticides that can poison your dog.
Older dogs, puppies and those with compromised immune systems are more
susceptible, but any dog should be discouraged from drinking from outdoor water
sources.
5. Don’t Let Your Dog
Drink from the Ocean
Drinking from the ocean can make your dog
extremely sick. Saltwater has an osmotic effect, pulling liquid into your
dog’s intestines. This can cause diarrhea and vomiting, both of which can lead
to dehydration. Unlike normal diarrhea,
beach diarrhea is severe and comes on fast, and it causes dogs to dehydrate
quickly. If dogs ingest enough saltwater, they can suffer serious kidney damage
which can be fatal.
Whenever going to a lake or the ocean, bring
along plenty of fresh water when you take your dog! Keep a close eye on your
dog and call them over if you see them start to drink from the lake or ocean.
6. Watch Out for
Advisories & Beach Closures
Many public beaches are monitored for
bacteria, and when those levels get too high health departments close beaches.
Most beach closures are due to E. coli, which is used as an indicator that
there’s likely other harmful pathogens present in the water. If you’re going to the beach with your dog be
sure to check for postings at the entrance regarding any current advisories.
You can also check online before you head out.
To find out if any beaches near you are
affected you can google “your state + beach closures” or use the EPA’s beach advisory map.
7. Watch Your Dog for
Signs of Illness
There are a few parasites that can transmit
waterborne illnesses to our dogs, and they’re impossible to spot with the
naked eye.
Dogs can contract giardia after
swimming. Diarrhea come on so quickly
and severely. Luckily that’s one of the ‘easier’ illnesses to treat, and a trip
to the vet can help them get back to normal very soon.
After taking your dog swimming watch for
symptoms of illness including diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, decrease in
appetite and fever. If your dog shows any signs of illness take your dog to the
vet for the correct diagnosis and treatment. Some waterborne illnesses are
fatal if left untreated.
8. Watch Out for
Blue-Green Algae
Blue-Green algae, also called cyanobacteria,
is most commonly found in calm waters such freshwater ponds and lakes. The
toxins it creates are dangerous to humans, livestock and pets. For dogs, exposure or ingestion of water
contaminated by blue-green algae is often fatal. A lot of it ends up washing up
onto the shore, creating even higher levels of concentration. If you see any
suspicious looking algae keep your dog away from the water itself and the
shoreline.
The bacteria is not easy to spot unless it has
clumped together. It can appear as green or brown flakes. When fully bloomed it often appears as a
blue-green film sitting on top of the water.
9. Wash Your Dog After
Swimming
Wash your dog after a swim to help get rid of
any bacteria that’s collected on their fur. If your dog isn’t cleaned off after
coming out of the lake or ocean, they may ingest nasty stuff they may have
picked up when they groom themselves. Bathing
will also help get rid of any chemicals that may have build up on his fur, and
it will help alleviate any itchiness caused by sand or debris.
Chronic ear infections can be an issue
for dogs that swim regularly. Pay close attention to your dog’s ears, making
sure they’re clean and thoroughly dried after a swim. If you notice any changes
in your dog’s ears, or if they develop a foul odor, schedule a vet visit for
diagnoses & treatment.
Have Fun & Be Safe
This Summer
Go out and have some fun adventures with your
dog this summer. Take them to the beach or your local dog-friendly pool.
Swimming is great exercise for dogs, and it’s the perfect way to keep cool on
those hot summer days. Just keep these tips in mind to help keep them safe.