Swimming
You might think canines are natural-born swimmers, but that isn’t always the case.
There’s no sure way to gauge your pal's swimming skills until you introduce him to H2O and teach him the basics:
Choose a quiet, shallow spot in the water.
Keep your dog on a leash while he learns.
Get into the water with him.
Start at the edge of the water, and stay as long as he enjoys it.
If he doesn't want to go, don’t force him in -- especially if it’s a deep spot.
When your dog begins to paddle with his front legs, lift his hind legs to show him how to float.
The younger your buddy is when you teach him to swim, the better. Keep the lesson positive and stress-free for him.
At the Beach
While you enjoy the surf with your pal, keep these tips in mind:
Watch out for strong currents and riptides, which can take you both out to sea. Even the best swimmer can be in danger when seas are rough.
Don’t let your dog drink ocean water. It can make him sick. Bring fresh H2O with you to keep him hydrated.
Keep your pal away from fish that have washed onto the shore. They may smell great to him, but they can make him ill.
In the Pool
Got a swimming hole in your backyard? Keep it Fido-friendly with these steps:
Put a fence around it to keep your dog out when it isn’t time to swim.
Keep a sturdy cover over it when you aren’t using it. It should be made of a material that lets rainwater drain through. Dogs can drown in puddles on top of pool covers.
Teach your dog how to get in and out. Make sure there are steps or a ramp he can use to climb out.
Check the water temperature before letting your dog take a dip. Only a few breeds can handle extra-cold water.
In a River, Lake, or Pond
Keep these tips in mind when you’re at Mother Nature’s water park:
Get your dog a life jacket, especially if you take him out on a boat or a dock.
Steer clear of bodies of water with blue-green algae. It can make your buddy sick.
Check the current of a river or a creek. Make sure it isn’t too strong to let your dog swim.
Keep your pal away from fishing gear. Sharp hooks and barbs can hurt him.
General Safety Rules
No matter where your pooch makes a splash, follow these pointers:
Rinse him off after he’s been in any type of water. Seawater minerals, salt, chlorine, algae, and pollution can irritate or damage his skin and fur.
Remove his flea collar before he swims. Water can wash off its active ingredients.
Dry your dog’s ears completely to prevent an infection. Try an ear cleaner that has a drying agent in it.
Learn canine CPR. Mouth-to-nose resuscitation and chest compressions could save a dog’s life in an emergency.
Never leave your pal alone in the water.