Some dogs can’t wait to get wet. If your furry friend is a swimmer, watching them leap into the water can be great fun. However, it’s important to take extra care whenever your dog is around natural water, whether it’s the sea, a lake or a pond. Here are some handy tips to keep them safe.
Keeping dogs safe around water
• If you’re taking your dog into the sea, make sure the water is calm and there aren’t any warning signs on the beach. Slow-moving rivers are also generally a safe option. Avoid throwing toys into deep water.
• Keep your dog away from lakes and ponds that may contain blue-green algae (which often looks like a blue-green film or scum on the surface). Blue-green algae is toxic to dogs and can make them seriously ill.
• Bring fresh water and a bowl so your dog isn’t tempted to drink from rivers, lakes or the sea, as the water may be contaminated with bacteria. A travel bowl is lightweight and easy to carry.
• If your dog is prone to ear infections, pack some dog ear cleaner and cotton pads. A small towel and spray bottle with clean water will also come in handy to wipe off muddy paws and fur.
• In an emergency, ring 999 and follow the advice of the emergency services. Never enter the water to rescue your dog yourself, as this could put both of you in even greater danger.
Aftercare tips for swimming dogs
• Give your dog a good brushing and check for any ticks, cuts and any signs of skin irritation. When possible, rinse their coat with clean water to wash away salt, sand or anything they may have picked up while swimming.
• Dogs with floppy ears are more prone to ear infections because heat and moisture can build up inside, creating the perfect environment for bacteria. Dry their ears thoroughly with a towel after they get wet.
• Once you’re home, it’s always a good idea to give your dog a bath using a dog shampoo. Avoid using human shampoo as it’s formulated for our more acidic skin pH and can cause irritation to your dog’s skin.
• Remember never to leave your dog in the car, even if it’s parked in the shade or the windows are open. On a 24°C day, the inside of a car can reach 34°C in just 10 minutes.
We hope you find these tips helpful. On a hot summer day, there’s nothing like a dip in the sea to cool down and enjoy the outdoors – something dogs and their owners can enjoy together. Just keep these tips in mind and everything should go swimmingly.
