Swimming Instructor Shares Three Strategies for Ensuring Canine Pool Safety (Second Strategy Sparks Considerable Reflection!)
Swimming can be a fun and enjoyable activity for many dogs, but it's important to prioritize caution and safety. Certified dog trainer Melissa Goodman of Mission Pawsitive offers some valuable advice for keeping your furry friend safe while swimming in pools.
- Supervision: Always keep a close eye on your dog while they are in or around the pool. This ensures that you can intervene quickly if any accidents occur.
- Pool Entry and Exit: Teach your dog how to safely enter and exit the pool, typically using steps or a ramp. This is crucial for preventing injuries and accidents.
- Swimming Ability: Not all dogs are natural swimmers, so make sure your dog is comfortable and able to swim. If your dog is a weak swimmer, consider using a life jacket to provide additional support.
- Safety Equipment: Life jackets can help keep dogs safe and reduce the risk of accidents. Melissa Goodman recommends using a life jacket for new swimmers, certain breeds, and when in an open body of water to ensure safety and minimize accidents.
- Hydration: Provide fresh drinking water to prevent dogs from drinking pool water, which may contain chemicals.
- Breaks: Give your dog regular breaks to avoid overexertion. It's important to let them rest and catch their breath.
- Rinse Off: Rinse your dog after swimming to remove chlorine or saltwater from their coat and skin. This helps keep them comfortable and can prevent skin irritation.
Melissa Goodman's advice is applicable to dogs who are already comfortable swimming. For dogs who are just learning to swim, she suggests using a long line to guide them. Additionally, she has worked on rear-end strengthening and awareness with her dog, Aspen, since she was a puppy.
It's worth noting that accidents can occur in pools, even with strong swimmers. So, it's always best to err on the side of caution and prioritize safety. For a list of 32 dog breeds that are made for swimming, you can find a detailed list here.
By following these simple rules, you can help ensure that your dog has a fun and safe swimming experience. Happy swimming!
- For dogs who are just learning to swim, use a long line to guide them, as suggested by Melissa Goodman.
- Melissa Goodman also works on rear-end strengthening and awareness with her dog, Aspen, from when she was a puppy.
- Some dogs might need additional help to swim safely, such as using a life jacket, especially when in open bodies of water, according to Melissa Goodman.
- Keep in mind that providing fresh drinking water is crucial to prevent dogs from drinking pool water that might contain chemicals.
- Regular breaks, to avoid overexertion, and rinsing your dog after swimming are essential aspects of a pet's lifestyle to ensure their comfort and minimize health risks.
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