Summertime is made for spending time around water with your furry companion, whether at a backyard pool, on a trip to the beach, or near a peaceful lake. However, water can pose significant hazards to your pet if you don’t take the proper precautions. From accidental drowning to parasitic and pathogenic illnesses, water risks are an immediate concern, and you should prioritize your pet’s safety whenever they’re near water. Our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team offers six essential tips to help you keep your four-legged friend safe while near water. 

#1: Always supervise your pet around water

One of the most crucial aspects of keeping your pet safe outdoors is constant supervision. Just as you would watch a young child near a pool, never leave your pet unattended around water. Even pets who are strong swimmers can get into trouble, and an accident can occur in a moment. Keep a close eye on your pet at all times when they are near water, and if they’re a weak swimmer or the current is strong, consider taking them for a walk rather than for a swim.

#2: Outfit your pet in a life jacket

If your pet will frequently spend time in or near water, such as in a boat or canoe, consider outfitting them in proper safety gear. Outfit your pet in a well-fitted life jacket because these garments provide buoyancy and help keep your pet afloat if they tire while swimming. Additionally, a brightly colored life jacket makes spotting your pet in the water easy and provides a handle for lifting them out during an emergency.

#3: Teach your dog to swim

Not all dogs instinctively know how to swim or are anatomically adapted to the activity, so introducing them to water gradually and teaching them proper swimming techniques are extremely important. Start in shallow, calm water and support your pet by keeping your arm under their torso as they get used to the sensation of swimming. Never force your pet into the water or throw them in; this can create fear and anxiety. Positive reinforcement and patience are key to helping your furry pal become a confident swimmer. Remember, flat-faced (i.e., brachycephalic) breeds, such as bulldogs, pugs, and Lhasa apsos, are ill-equipped to swim because of their respiratory issues. 

#4: Pool chemicals can adversely affect your pet

If you have a swimming pool, the chemicals you use to treat the water can be abrasive to your pet’s skin and harmful if ingested. If you see your pet drinking from the pool, redirect them to a clean water source, such as a collapsible water bowl filled with bottled or tap water. Rinse your furry pal with fresh water after swimming to remove chemicals from their fur and prevent a skin reaction to chlorine. 

#5: Minimize your pet’s exposure to parasitic and pathogenic illnesses

Natural water sources, such as creeks, rivers, and lakes, are a fun place to splash around with your pet. Unfortunately, these natural bodies of water contain parasites and pathogens that can harm them. These parasites include:

  • Giardiasis — Giardia is found in unsanitary water, urine, and feces. These parasites can cause severe diarrhea in pets, possibly leading to dehydration and malnutrition if left untreated.
  • Leptospirosis — Commonly called lepto, this bacterium thrives in water and wet soil, entering the body through cuts, abrasions, and mucous membranes. Lepto is a serious illness that can damage the kidneys and other major body organs. If your pet contracts leptospirosis, they can transmit the disease to you and other family members.
  • Cryptosporidiosis — This protozoan parasite causes diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, and fever.
  • Cyanobacteria — Also known as blue-green algae, cyanobacteria are found in lakes, ponds, and standing water. They are highly toxic and can cause death if ingested. 

Ensure you research the area where you’re taking your furry friend and whether these diseases have been reported there. Whenever you and your furry pal venture out during the summer, always bring plenty of fresh, clean water for your pet to drink. If your pet is determined to ingest water from natural sources, opt for another activity, such as walking or hiking, which is safer. 

#6: Practice water safety at the beach

If you’re taking your pet to the beach, be aware of hazards such as strong currents, rough surf, and hidden underwater obstacles. Keep your pet on a leash to prevent them from wandering into dangerous areas or deep water. Bring an umbrella or pop-up awning to provide shade to prevent dehydration and overheating. Additionally, sand can become extremely hot under the sun, so check the ground temperature to prevent your four-legged friend’s sensitive paws from getting burned. 

You can enjoy spending time with your pet near water by taking the proper precautions. By prioritizing your pet’s safety, you can ensure that your time spent together near water is worry-free and filled with fun memories. Contact our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team to learn additional facts about pet water safety.