Should you let your dog swim in your pool?
Well, the short answer is yes, you can let your dog swim in the pool. But, you need to ensure safety and keep in mind some points. Here are the factors you should consider when you’re thinking of letting your dog swim in the pool. Most dogs love water and can swim.
Can dogs safely swim in above-ground pools?
The design of the above ground swimming pool makes it easier for the dogs to swim properly because the water remains inside the pool. You need to make sure that the nails of your pet are properly cut because the material used in the swimming pool are vulnerable to sharp objects.
Should dogs be allowed in swimming pools?
- Keep dogs that have vomiting, diarrhea or skin infections out of the pool. ...
- Don’t allow dogs known to be shedding infectious agents like Salmonella and Giardia in the pool. ...
- Don’t allow dogs that have fecal staining of their haircoat in the pool.
- The same rules should apply to people. ...
Will a dog contaminate a swimming pool?
This fecal matter WILL contaminate the pool's water aiding in the transmission of Recreational Water Illnesses (RWI's) such as E. coli, Giardia, Hepatitis A and Cryptosporidium. Besides the affect on the pool's water chemistry, the fur of a dog will get caught in the pools equipment resulting in more frequent service and/or replacement of parts and higher service and maintenance costs.
How to keep a dog from drinking water in the pool?
Keep a fresh bowl of drinking water around for the dog near the pool to cleanse the throat. This also helps prevent your dog from drinking gulps of water in the pool because of thirst.
How many people can a dog swim in a pool?
They say a dog is equivalent to about 50 people in the pool at one time. Crazy, huh? Notwithstanding, although dog hair and such is harder on a filter system, by no means are they known to do damage either. Your strainer basket will do most of the heavy work and you may need to do some extra skimming the following day once the hair settles. All-in-all, dog hair is a manageable byproduct that most pool owners find to be a minor inconvenience to letting their dog share in the joys of pool time.
How to cool off a dog in a pool?
Swimming pools are also a great 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 to not 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 cool 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, which allows them to warm-up quicker and prevent muscle spasms.
How to protect my dog's ears from infection?
However, a little effort can go a long way to protect your pup’s ears from infections by simply cleaning and drying their ears thoroughly immediately after a swim with a cotton or wool towel. An extra-preventative measure would be to use HappyTails deodorizing ear wipes around the ear canal after a swim.
What is a fit dog?
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 in the pool.
Can a dog get colder in the pool?
Breeds with short faces like bulldogs or pugs have trouble keeping their snout out of the water. Smaller dogs may enjoy swimming but it is important to be aware that smaller dogs can get colder faster in chillier pool water or can panic by becoming overwhelmed from being in the pool.
Can a dog ladder be used in a pool?
This pet pool ladder is designed with boats in mind but since it is constructed from durable rubber it works for pools too! It’s rust resistant, simply attaches to an existing people ladder, and has steps without spaces between, to serve as a solid staircase for your dog. It attaches to steps that are 14” wide and includes an attachment for wider steps. Best for dogs under 90lbs.
Is it safe to give a dog salt water?
A: Same as chlorine, low salt levels in water are entirely safe for dogs. However, in a copious amount, the saltwater can cause dehydration, leading to brain hemorrhages before saltwater poisoning takes the dog’s life.
Can dogs swim in pools?
Should dogs be allowed in swimming pools? Yes, but you will have to train it to stay calm and comfortable in and around the pool. It’s also a must you supervise it. Use a hair de-shredder to remove the dead and loose hair on the body before allowing your dog to swim. If you did this, you could now enjoy your swimming pool with your canine friend.
What to do if your pool is cloudy?
If your pool is cloudy, be sure to check chemicals to improve the water quality before anyone or your pets go swimming. If you need help with your swimming pool chemicals or you have issues with your pool equipment, call the professionals at Sterling Pool Service at 888-973-0274. We are glad to help!
What is the phone number for Sterling Pool Service?
If you need help with your swimming pool chemicals or you have issues with your pool equipment, call the professionals at Sterling Pool Service at 888-973-0274. We are glad to help!
Do you clean pool filters?
Filters need to be cleaned on a regular basis as part of normal pool maintenance. But this especially needs to be done during the summer months when dogs and heavy swimmer loads occur. Be sure to disassemble DE (diatomaceous earth) filters completely, wash grids thoroughly, and re-charge the skimmers with the appropriate amount of DE, depending on the filter size. Cartridge filters should be taken out and cleaned thoroughly as well.
Can pets swim in pools?
Keeping pool chemicals balanced is a challenge for pools that pets swim in. Even though you are diligent about checking chemicals, it could be your pool needs a specialty treatment, which can be determined by your pool service company or taking a water sample into your local pool store. Be sure to tell them you have pets that swim.
The Pros of Allowing Your Dog to Swim in Your Pool
Summer temperatures in Florida can reach up to 92 ° F during peak sun hours. Most of the time, the humidity is what makes these days even hotter and less bearable to be outside. Although relaxing in an air-conditioned home is more comfortable than sweating outside, it’s not the best way to spend your summer.
The Cons of Allowing Your Dog to Swim in Your Pool
Although the advantages are many, there are also cons to allowing your dog in the pool. The top disadvantage is that not all dogs instinctively know how to swim. Even the most experienced swimmers can fall victim to drowning. Therefore, you must supervise your dog at all times regardless of the swimming experience.
Considerations
As pet owners, we become so attached to our dogs we no longer think of them as pets but as family members. It can be hard to exclude them from family fun activities, especially with the many advantages a swim can have for them. If you do want your pup to join you on your next morning swim, here are a few things to take into consideration such as:
Why do dogs swim?
Swimming allows your dog to get adequate exercise while remaining cool and comfortable. Busy dog owners also get a break from having to take time out of their day and go for a walk with their dog, and the pool itself cools down your pet so they can spend more time outside.
What to use to prevent dog hair from getting in pool?
Skimmer socks are a good preventative measure to decrease the likelihood of your dog’s hair reaching your pool’s filter system. Many dog owners are also concerned with damage being done to their vinyl layer of the pool, but encouraging your dog to use the pool stairs will help prevent this.
Can dogs swim in a pool?
Keep in mind that not all dogs can swim, and some dogs may have an aversion to water. You shouldn’t force your dog into your pool. You also need to be well aware of some of the risks, especially since many are preventable with proper care.
Is swimming in a pool good for dogs?
Exercise - Swimming will provide your dog with an effective, low-impact full body workout. It is especially beneficial for dogs with joint problems. If your dog struggles to run for long periods of time and you don’t always have time to go on long walks, swimming is a great alternative to get your dog’s cardio in.
Is it safe to walk a dog in the heat?
Exercise in general keeps your dog healthy and at low risk for other injuries or illnesses. Summer Heat - It isn’t always ideal to walk your dog in the heat - and it may even be pretty harsh on their paws, as dogs don’t have shoes and the ground can heat up to sweltering temperatures.
Can dogs get ear infections from swimming?
However, if you thoroughly wipe and clean your dog’s ears after a swim, you greatly reduce the risk of infection.
Can dogs drink pool water?
This is likely due to the pool chemicals, but training can be done to discourage your dog from drinking pool water. As long as your dog isn’t indulging themselves on pool water, a little gulp here and there won’t hurt them.
What to do if your dog hops in the pool?
If your pet does hop in the pool, give him a quick rinse when he gets out to remove any excess chemicals. In addition, be sure to dab their ears with a towel to prevent dampness and infection. When most canines see a pool, they may see a huge water bowl.
Why is my dog thrashing in the pool?
When a dog starts to thrash in the water, it can’t bark and will get tired that 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 the pool using a toy or treats.
Can dogs eat chlorine tablets?
Klein notes. Some canine owners choose to apply non-chlorine chemicals to their pools such as Bromine, which is safer for pets.
Do you have to teach a dog to swim?
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.
Is swimming with your companion fun?
Swimming with your companion is entertaining, fun, and great bonding time, as long as you follow the precautions!
Can dogs swim in a pool?
When humans swim in a pool, most chlorine levels are safe, even if you happen to ingest water by accident. Most canines, on the other hand, have ears and eyes that are more sensitive than the ears and eyes of their owner. This sensitivity makes dogs more susceptible to the dangers of chlorine. However, dogs with floppy ears can retrieve an ear infection because of the dampness, not the chlorine.
What happens if my dog drinks too much salt water?
In some cases, your dog may get very thirsty and consume a large amount of salt. This can be serious and may even be fatal. At this time, there is no specific treatment for dogs who drink too much seawater, so it is best to take preventative action before this occurs.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from a beach trip?
They may even develop a small level of diarrhoea in some cases. This is natural and is not a cause for concern on its own. Your dog should recover within a few days. The next time you visit the beach, however, try to take action to discourage your dog from engaging in this behavior again.
What can a vet do for a dog?
The best thing a veterinarian can do for your dog is make an attempt to restore the level of homeostasis and electrolyte balance in your dog’s body. Your local vet can insert an IV into your dog’s bloodstream and monitor your dog overnight for any troubling signs. Too much sodium in the bloodstream can cause swelling of the brain and seizures, ...
Is chlorine safe for dogs?
This chlorine can still irritate a dog’s skin and eyes. There is still much debate over which one is better for your dog, but generally speaking, saltwater comes up at the top. True, there is the risk of your dog drinking water that has high levels of sodium, but they should not consume chlorine either. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but as a vet, the more natural option is best as it is akin to a less concentrated ocean. But it is a much safer environment for your dog to swim in.
Do saltwater pools have chlorine?
Saltwater pools may give the impression that they are an alternative to chlorine, but the truth is that they still contain the chemical, just at a smaller concentration.
Do dogs like to swim?
And dogs love to swim and frolic around in the waves of the sea! Your dog may even take a few gulps of the water as they are splashing about. This is quite normal and if you see the safety aspect above, you will notice that there are risks to letting your dog do this.
Do you have to wash your dog before swimming?
Do not wash your dog before they go swimming. Always let your dog go swimming in its natural state. That is, do not attempt to wash your dog clean before they get into the swimming pool. This is because your dog’s skin has natural oils beneath its fur.
