WATER SAFETY FOR DOGS

​Summer is here, and that is the time many pet owners head to the beach, river, pool, or local lake and take their dog with them. Water is a favorite place to beat the heat on a warm summer day and is also one place to have a lot of fun with your pooch (if they like water).


But remember, each year around 40,000 pets die in drowning accidents, and not all dogs can swim, and many may fear the water. Never force your dog into the water.

Here are a few tips to ensure a perfectly safe time by the water: 

• Sun Protection: Some breeds – hairless, short-coated, light-colored breeds and dogs with pink noses – are more prone to getting sunburn. Pet sunscreens can be found at most pet stores or online. Be careful not to buy sunscreen that contains zinc! If ingested, it can be toxic. Your dog might also be tempted to lick the sunscreen. To avoid that, avoid products with fragrances.
• Seawater and freshwater: Many dogs will find drinking saltwater very enjoyable, but it can lead to stomach irritation, vomiting, and dehydration. Teach your dog not to drink seawater or discourage him by offering him a bowl of freshwater. Also, when leaving the beach, an immediate freshwater rinse will wash off the sand and salt and help keep your pooch’s coat and skin healthy.
• Waves: Unless your pup is the Kelly Slater of canines, he’s probably not a great surfer! Make sure you are aware of rip currents and undertows. Even if dogs can be great swimmers, water currents can be very strong for dogs, just as with humans, putting them in danger.
• Boating: Wishing to go on a leisurely cruise with your dog? Make sure your dog has a life jacket on! In case of an accident, even good swimmers can tire and may struggle to keep afloat. On the boat, make sure there is a secure area available, but not tethered, away from the edge where you can keep your pet safe if the ride gets rough or your dog has the tendency to  jump.
• Pools: Pools are much more dangerous for dogs than they appear. Your dog will probably merrily jump (or accidentally fall, especially if trying to get a drink) into the water for a swim, but if he doesn’t know where the stairs are, he’s in trouble! Don’t let your pet play near a pool if you’re not 100% sure he knows how to get out on his own. Visible pool ramps are also a good idea and can be purchased online and in most pet stores. Don’t force it: dogs are like people in so many ways. Some love water, some hate it. Also, make sure he doesn’t have any major health issues or physical limitations that would make swimming more difficult.

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Shelia Huffman, Contributor/MHC Board 
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Shelia recently moved to the Greenwood community of Midland from Dallas where she was a staff writer for White Rock Lake Weekly and a columnist for Bubblelife Media.  A retired travel agent and event planner, she has  been an animal activist her entire life.  Shelia  has a daughter and son-in-law in Midland, a grandson in Dallas and a granddaughter at Texas Tech. She lists cooking and writing about food, and,  of course, playing with her Terrier Mix rescue, Penelope, as some of her favorite things.
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