Drool and the pool! Your dogs and your swimming pool!
Drool and the pool! Your dogs and your swimming pool! It’s a hot day. The family is in the pool splashing around, with much mirth and merriment. Fido is running around the pool as well. After all, he’s part of the family, so he wants to be part of the fun. And so, without too much encouragement, he jumps in, leaping enthusiastically into the middle of your boisterous clan. Now, as welcome as he (or she) is in the pool, pet owners have two things to keep in mind. They have to know how to keep their pool clean as a result of this canine participation. And they also need to know that Fido’s safe in the water. Let’s look at the first challenge: keeping your pool clean when you have a dog swimming in it. There’s a belief that one dog in the pool is equivalent to 50 human swimmers! Now that does sound crazy, and looking at the figure, it’s probably an exaggeration. What is true though is that your dog will not only leave hair in the pool, he also comes equipped with dirt and other contaminants. Which can test your chemical levels to the max!
- Clean your filter regularly.
Dog hair build-up can be tough on your filter system, so you’ll need to regularly clean it to ensure your pool continues to run optimally. For a cartridge filter, spray it off more often. If you have a sand filter, you’ll want to run a regular backwash.
- Get your dog ready for his swim.
Okay, you may not have time (or opportunity) to prepare Fido before he dives in, but if you do, brush his coat with a de-shedding brush. Regularly shampooing your dogs will also make a difference. Both practises will keep him shedding unwanted hair in the pool. The other thing to think about with your dog enjoying your pool is his safety. No doubt, with a swimming canine, there’ll be loads of dog-sized fun for all! Remember though, dogs are man’s best friend, so help them stay safe in the water, just like you would young children.
- A quick word on chemicals
Chlorine is safe for dogs as long as it is not too much. A dog’s eyes, nose and ears are more sensitive than humans though, so don’t overdo it on the chlorine. If you are concerned about it, give Fido a rinse after swimming.
- Danger of pool covers
Many pool owners cover their pools to keep leaves and other debris out of the water. Pool owner can also use a solar cover to heat the water when the days aren’t so warm. Just remember, though covers are great to have, they can mean trouble for dogs. If your dog falls or jumps into a covered pool, the cover is disorienting, so he can get stuck under it, and it’s almost always impossible for him to find his way out. So, if you do use a pool cover, it’s a good idea to also invest in a pool fence. That way, everyone’s happy – and safe.
- Pool steps and ramps for dogs
Train your dog to enter and exit the pool via the steps. This protects him, as well as any swimmers from a dog-sized cannonball landing on their head as he jumps in. Most importantly though, laying down the rules for where he gets in and out, means he’ll always know how to navigate to dry land.
- Train your dog to swim.
Yes, they do have instinctive doggy paddle in their skill set. But, and don’t laugh, many dogs benefit from a swimming lesson or two, as their innate technique is unlikely to earn them a spot on the Canine Olympic Swim Team. You can hire professional doggy swimming coaches, or you can teach him yourself. Just don’t chuck him in and force him to work it out on his own. Ease him in gently and stay with him till he gets the hang of it.
- Consider a doggie life jacket.
This life-saver is especially useful for dogs who aren’t yet confident in the water, have arthritis or are elderly, as well as dogs who tire easily. You can buy one from a good pet store.
- Never leave your dog in the pool unattended.
He may be the Michael Phelps of dog-swimmers, but you should never leave him unattended in the pool. Anything can happen. He may suddenly struggle with exhaustion and inhale water while struggling, which can lead to fluid in the lungs or worse.
- Don’t let your dog get too tired in the pool.
Dogs are like kids. They don’t recognise when they get tired in the pool, especially when they’re having fun. So, make him take a break at the first sign of physical fatigue. You’ll know when that is by watching his rump. The lower his bum is in the water, the more tired he is.
And let’s end with that age-old question. Can your dog drink pool water?
Well, yes, he’s made of tough stuff! But it also depends on how chlorinated the water is, and if it is highly chlorinated, it’s not healthy for your dog. So, err on the safe side, and keep a plentiful supply of fresh water on hand.
That’s it really. Playing in the pool with your dog is some of the best fun you can both have. But everything within reason. So, keep an eye out, both to keep your pool clean and Fido safe.
Happy swimming!