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Dog Swimming In The Pool
Posted by Michael Shine
With a seemingly endless stream of dogs-in-a-pool videos online, it could be natural to assume that it’s all fun for all dogs to take a plunge. However, there are pros and cons, along with health and safety concerns to consider before unleashing your pup into your pool water.
The Benefits of Swimming For Your Dog:
Just like for people, swimming for dogs is a great, low-impact total body workout. Swimming is natural to exercise on your pet’s joints and limbs, which is terrific for both young pups and aging dogs alike. Swimming pools can be a fun place to play with the family in the water, or a rehabilitation method for a dog recovering from a procedure.
Swimming is an excellent workout for your dog’s cardiovascular system, as well.
Not only is your dog getting a low-impact workout, but it is also getting more of an exercise in a shorter period. However, just with any activity, it is best to build your dog’s swimming sessions up in length slowly. Short bursts of swimming at first, can gradually grow into longer workouts.
Swimming is not a substitute for all on-land workouts. It’s essential to have a balance because running, jogging, and walking exercise helps maintain healthy bone density.
Swimming pools are also an excellent way for your pup to cool off on a hot summer day. It’s always best to make sure that the water isn’t too cold or too warm as not to shock your dog as he or she enters the pool as this can frighten them.
There’s no better way for your dog to cool off on a hot day than taking a plunge into the lukewarm water. From an exercise perspective, warmer water is better for your dog’s muscles to help promote a full range of movement and blood flow. The more lukewarm water allows them to warm-up quicker and prevents muscle spasms.
A fit dog is a healthy dog that is less susceptible to injuries in the long run. It’s even better if part of the fitness routine can be part of family bonding time while everyone is having fun.
Making Chlorine Safer for Dogs
As far as chlorine: the amount in a pool is negligible, but the toxic concerns are with dogs getting into chlorine tablets. The tablets should be in a safe location where a dog cannot ingest them. Some canine owners choose to apply non-chlorine chemicals to their pools, such as Bromine, which is safer for pets.
If your pet does hop in the pool, give him a quick rinse when he removes any excess chemicals. Also, be sure to dab their ears with a towel to prevent dampness and infection.
When most canines see a pool, they may see a giant water bowl. Make sure to prohibit licking or drinking the pool water, as this could cause other issues. It will be best to have a bowl of fresh water close.
Dog Swimming Safety
Overall, if your furry friend is properly cared for and while swimming, chlorine is safe. The biggest misconception is how your dog approaches swimming. Not all dogs want to swim, and those that don’t can be encouraged, but should not force.
Owners should allow their dogs to enter the pool at their leisure and be praised every step along the way. Dogs should never be thrown into the lake, as many dogs are fearful the first time they approach the water.
To help your canine enter the water, try tossing a toy, or escorting them yourself. The easiest part? You won’t have to teach them how to swim because they are natural swimmers.
Is it your dog’s first time? Most dogs tend to panic when they try to exit a pool for the first time. They aren’t used to walking up the ladder, and as an owner, you have to show them how to use the steps.
When a dog starts to thrash in the water, it can’t bark and get tired, which could lead to potential drowning. Because of this, it’s also best to surround your pool with a fence to prevent accidents. Never leave the dog without any supervision and teach them how to exit using a toy or treats.
Swimming with your companion is entertaining, fun, and excellent bonding time, as long as you follow the precautions!
