Swimming With Fido

Are you planning to go swimming this summer? If so, your canine pal may be delighted to join you! Swimming is one of Fido’s favorite activities, along with chasing squirrels, going for walks, sniffing grass, and, of course, taking car rides. However, you will need to take some precautions to keep your pup safe around water. An Anderson, IN vet offers some tips on how to do this below. 

Stairs

When taking Fido to a pool, the first thing you want to do is show him where the pool stairs are. We can’t overstress how important this is! If Fido falls in when no one is looking, he could be in big trouble if he can’t get out again. Take some time with this training. Then, test him a bit to make sure he remembers. Go to the other side of the pool, opposite from the stairs, and call him. 

Water

Dehydration is always a concern in summer. Make sure Fido always has fresh, clean water. Try not to let him slurp up pool water. You don’t want your pup ingesting pool chemicals! 

Paws

Dogs’ paws are very delicate, especially when they’re wet. Fido can get pretty nasty blisters, burns, and abrasions by running on hot or harsh surfaces after going swimming! Keep your pooch on soft grass as much as you can. You can also use paw wax to protect his feet. (Tip: Vaseline will also work.) 

Training

Before taking Fido to your favorite swimming hole, make sure he obeys basic commands, like Sit, Stay, and Come. You don’t want your furry buddy swimming out too far, or jumping off a dock after you! 

Fur

After swimming is over, rinse Fido off to get sand, mud, and/or chemicals out of his fur. Later, after your pooch is dry, you may want to give him a good brushing. 

Beach Bag

Headed to a lake? Pack a beach bag for your canine pal. Include towels, dishes, water, a doggy lifejacket, a tie-out line, waste baggies, and, of course, some yummy treats. 

Safety

You’ll basically want to follow the same safety precautions for a dog as you would with a child. Never leave Fido unattended near water! We also recommend using baby gates or fences to block pools off when they aren’t in use. 

As your local Anderson, IN vet clinic, we’re here to help. Please contact us anytime!