Water Safety Tips for Dogs: Pools, Lakes, Beaches and Boats

Understanding Your Pet’s Swimming Abilities

Not all pets are natural swimmers and their swimming abilities can vary greatly. Breeds like Labrador retrievers and spaniels tend to be strong swimmers, while bulldogs and pugs may struggle because of their body structure.

Before letting your pet dive in, assess their swimming skills in a controlled environment. Start in shallow water and gradually increase the depth as they become more comfortable. Regardless of your pet’s swimming prowess, always watch them closely when they are in or near water, as even experienced swimmers can become tired or encounter difficulties.

Gearing Up For Pet Water Safety

To help ensure your pet’s water safety, the right gear can make all the difference. Pet life jackets are an important piece of equipment specifically designed to keep your pet buoyant and safe, particularly those who are not strong swimmers or are new to water activities. Ensure the life jacket fits snugly but comfortably and allows them to move freely without slippage or restriction. Look for brightly colored or reflective jackets with a handle on the back, so you can easily spot your furry pal and pull them out of the water, if necessary.

In addition to life jackets, floating toys are a valuable water safety tool that not only entertain, but also help to keep your pet in designated safe areas. Avoid toys that can sink or become waterlogged, which can pose a drowning risk.

A pet-friendly ramp or steps for pools are also important. Teaching your pet to use these can help them exit the water easily and safely, reducing the risk of panic or drowning if they become tired or disoriented.

Keeping Your Pet Safe Around Swimming Pools

Pools may seem safer than natural water bodies, but they have their own set of hazards. Ensure your pet’s health and safety by:

• Putting up a fence — Install a fence around your pool to prevent unsupervised access. Pets can fall in and panic, leading to dangerous situations.
• Teaching exit strategies — Teach your pet how to exit the pool using the steps or a pet-friendly ramp. Practice this regularly, so they are familiar with the escape routes.
• Understanding chemicals — Be mindful of pool chemicals. Rinse your pet with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine and other harmful substances.
• Preventing pool water ingestion – Do not let your pet use the pool as a water bowl. Swallowing small amounts of properly maintained pool water is unlikely to harm most dogs, but drinking large amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset. Keep fresh drinking water nearby.
• Rinsing after swimming – Rinse your pet with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine or other pool chemicals from their coat. Dry them thoroughly, especially around skin folds, paws, and ears.

Keeping Your Pet Safe Around Natural Bodies of Water

Natural bodies of water come with their own unique challenges for pets, including:

• Currents and tides — Be aware of currents in rivers and tides in the ocean. Even strong swimmers can be overpowered by a strong current or riptide.
• Water quality — Ensure the water is clean and free from harmful bacteria or algae, such as blue-green algae, which can be toxic to pets. Avoid water that looks discolored, foamy, scummy, or paint-like, Check local advisories for blue-green algae before letting your pet swim.
• Wildlife — Watch out for wildlife, such as jellyfish, snakes, or aggressive fish, which can threaten your pet. Keep your pet leashed or under close control so they do not chase, harass, or disturb wildlife in or around the water.
• Avoid salt water ingestion – At the beach, do not let your dog drink salt water. Too much salt water can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, weakness, tremors, seizures, and other serious problems. Bring fresh water and offer frequent breaks.

Keeping Your Pet Safe on Boats

If your pet joins you on a boat, safety measures include:

• Using a life jacket — Have your pet wear a properly fitted life jacket on or near boats. Choose one with bright colors, reflective material, and a sturdy handle so you can spot and lift your pet more easily if needed.
• Packing pet first aid supplies — Keep a pet first aid kit on the boat with basics such as gauze, bandage material, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any medications your pet may need. Know where the nearest emergency veterinary hospital is before you head out.
• Preventing boating hazards — Give your pet a shaded place to rest, offer fresh water often, and keep them away from fishing hooks, bait, fuel, and other boating hazards.

Recognizing Distress in Pets in the Water

Knowing distress signs and how to respond can save your pet’s life. Signs include:

• Labored breathing — If your pet is struggling to breathe or panting excessively, get them out of the water immediately.
• Uncoordinated movements — Disorientation or difficulty swimming can indicate fatigue or panic.
• Vomiting or diarrhea — If your pet develops gastrointestinal issues, they may have ingested harmful water or chemicals.

Caring For Your Pet After Swimming

Water safety doesn’t end when your pet gets out of the water. A few simple after-swim steps can help remove irritants, prevent discomfort, and alert you to potential problems.

• Rinsing and drying your pet — Rinse your pet with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine, salt, sand, algae, bacteria, or other irritants from their coat. Dry them thoroughly, especially around the paws, skin folds, and areas where moisture can become trapped.
• Checking your pet’s ears — Check your pet’s ears after swimming, especially if they swim often or have a history of ear problems. Contact your veterinarian if you notice head shaking, scratching, redness, odor, discharge, or signs of discomfort.
• Watching for delayed problems — Monitor your pet after water activities for vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, lethargy, skin irritation, ear discomfort, or changes in breathing. Contact your veterinarian if you notice concerning signs after swimming or water exposure.

Water activities with your pet are an enjoyable way to exercise together and strengthen your bond, but you must take precautions and be prepared for problems. Have fun and be safe while making a splash this summer! However, if your pet has a dangerous water experience, contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for help.