Pool Safety for You and Your Pets

Splashing, doggy paddling, rough housing, but no dunking! When the sun is out, and the temperature starts to rise, it’s only natural to pull out the noodles, floating doughnuts, and arm floaties. From planned pool parties to lazy day lounging about the pool, our furry friends may follow. Our pups may jump in to cool off and cats are known to take a plunge sometimes too. But there are hidden dangers and pool safety procedures that should always be followed when you and your furry friend want to beat the heat.

Here are some safety know hows, to do tips, and tricks of the trade to keep your four legged friend safe during pool party season.

1. Never leave pets unattended.
Leaving your pets unattended around the pool can be very dangerous. If there is no supervision your pet could jump into the pool, or fall in, and not be able to get out. You should always supervise your pets trips to the pool.

2. Keep chemicals up and away from pets and children.
Chemicals to clean the pool, like chlorine, can be deadly if inhaled or ingested. When cleaning your pool keep your pets away. Keep chemicals locked up and out of your pet’s reach when not cleaning your pool.

3. Use life jackets.
When first introducing your dog to the pool, or any body of water like a lake or going to the beach, it’s a great idea to invest in a lifejacket. This can keep your pup afloat even if they do not paddle or don’t know how to swim. Never throw or take your pet into water and think that they will automatically know how to swim.

4. Beware of pool covers.
Pool covers are great for conserving water and keeping debris out of your pool. These can prove problematic, however, if your pet finds a hole to climb into the pool through or thinks that it is a solid surface to walk in, they could be in huge trouble. If the pool cover is on, pool time is over. Do not let your pet by the pool when the cover is on.

5. Don’t let your pets drink the pool water.
If your pet is swimming and they accidentally swallow some of the pool water, light irritation may occur. But if you see that your pet is lapping up pool water like it’s a huge water dish, it’s time to scoot them away and get them some fresh water. Too much pool water intake could cause your furry friend to become extremely ill.

6. Skin and eye irritation may occur, but is usually mild and non-threatening.
Pool water can cause skin and eye irritation in pets just like it does in people. Red eyes or skin could be a tell-tale sign of irritation. The best thing to do is to cut pool time down and to take a break. Get the irritation checked out by a vet if it doesn’t go away or seems to be distracting for your pet.

7. Fences and gates around an in ground pool are great precautions.
Installing a fence and gate that are not easily jumped by your pet can cut down on unwanted pool time. Just like children, pets should always be supervised when they are in or around the pool. Having a fence can keep cats and dogs from wandering or hanging out around the pool.

8. Long periods of time spent in the pool can be dangerous.
Fatigue can hit you and your pet out of nowhere. Swimming is a strenuous activity that takes a lot of energy. Limit your pets time in the pool and watch out for overheating, sunburn, and dehydration. Keep fresh water by the pool, use pet sunblock, and make sure that your pet exits the pool before they tucker out.

9. Know CPR.
Knowing CPR is a huge plus for everyday life. But knowing and being certified in human and pet CPR can be a life-saving skill. Check out our article on how to get certified for pet CPR and some of the signs that your pet may need it.

10. Have fun and be safe.
The most important rule is to have fun and be safe. A day at the pool can help beat the heat and be a great experience for your pet.