Water Safety Tips For Pets
There aren’t many things better than letting your pet run wild on one of San Diego’s beaches! Most dogs love water, which is great, because swimming can have some positive health effects, such as strengthening muscles, relieving stress, and burning off some extra calories.
But while beach outings are fun for your pet, you should always be on the lookout for danger and know the risks. Here’s what you need to know before you bring your dog (or cat!) to one of San Diego’s beaches for a swim.
Know Your Pet’s Breed
Most cats aren’t fans of the water, and not all dogs are natural swimmers — that’s the first thing you should know. If you are a cat owner who is itching to take your pet for a swim ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ , these breeds are often comfortable in or around water:
Turkish Angora
Maine Coon
Highlander
Siberian
Manx
Turkish Van
American Bobtail
Japanese Bobtail
Norwegian Forest Cat
These dog breeds tend to be either water-shy, can’t swim, or shouldn’t be in the water for extended periods of time:
Chihuahua
Boxer
Bichon Frise
Dachshund
Pekingese
Pomeranian
Maltese
Shih Tzu
Bulldogs
Even if the pet breed enjoys the water, don’t assume they can swim. You can start by encouraging your furry friend to take a few steps into the water, keeping them leashed in case you need to pull them out. But if your pet enjoys the water, cheer them on to go deeper.
Don’t Let Your Pet Swim Alone
Whether it’s a river, pool, or ocean, always keep an eye on your pet — even the best swimmers can drown. Additionally, stay near your pet for faster response in the event of distress. Don’t forget to inspect the water conditions — if it’s choppy out there, maybe it’s not the best time for a swim.
Animals might not be able to navigate fast currents when swimming in oceans or rivers. Don’t forget to check the water temperature — if the water is cold for you, your four-legged friend might also find it cold. Similarly, make sure to fence your backyard pool to prevent unwanted access.
Life Jackets
Besides making a fashion statement, life jackets serve various purposes when swimming with your furry friend. For starters, they keep the animal afloat if they cannot swim or are exhausted from paddling. Vests also have handles to grab your pet in case of an accident. Another benefit is keeping your pet warm, they might have a thick coat, but could still catch hypothermia from cold water.
When it comes to visibility, grab a life jacket with attractive colors, patterns, and reflective tapes to easily spot your animal buddy. Best of all, life jackets offer peace of mind so you can have fun without having to worry too much about their safety. Remember to check the life jacket’s size before getting it; they should be able to walk, breathe, and jump without difficulty. While undersized vests are uncomfortable for your pet, oversized ones can slip out and make swimming difficult.
Bring Fresh Drinking Water
Swimming is tiring and your pet is bound to get thirsty. However, recreational water isn’t always safe for consumption. According to a past report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many disease outbreaks originate from ocean, lake, and river water.
By drinking from swimming holes, animals risk ingesting chemicals, parasites, bacteria, and algae. As a result, they could suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, and seizures. Direct your pet to clean water when they start drinking from the pool. While small amounts of water are safe, consult your veterinarian if your pet consumes too much pool water.
Rinse Your Pet Off
No matter the water they have been playing in, rinsing off your pet’s fur washes away chlorine, salt, and algae that can irritate their skin. Additionally you can use shampoo to remove accumulated dirt and keep them smelling fresh. Don’t forget to dry them off with a clean towel, paying attention to the ear to minimize infection risks. If the animal has long fur, feel free to use a hair dryer.
Dealing With Emergencies
If you find yourself in a difficult situation, call your vet immediately for advice on the way forward. You can also learn pet first aid and buy a first aid kit — neither are bad ideas!
Contact us to make an appointment today!
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