There’s nothing like taking a dip in the pool to rest and unwind after a long day. However, it’s not relaxing if you’re worried about your four-legged friend’s safety when you swim. Here’s a helpful guide to enjoying your water time while keeping your dog safe on the pool deck

Enjoy Pool Time & Keep Your Dog Safe

Install a Pet-Friendly Pool Exterior

Hawaii experiences a hot climate year round, causing concrete to heat quickly. A concrete pool exterior can rapidly wear out your pet’s foot padding and even burn it in the process. Replace your existing pool exterior with a pet-friendly alternative like fiberglass to help your dog avoid this danger and discomfort. Highly durable, fiberglass withstands scratches from your pet’s nails and provides a smooth, temperate surface for them to walk on.

Instill a Calm Poolside Manner

A dog’s instinct is to save their owner from “drowning.” Put your loyal friend at ease by training them to remain calm when people are swimming. Start by keeping your dog on a leash by the pool deck until they calm down, then slowly reintroduce the pool area. You can also use treats to reward calm poolside behavior. If you’d prefer to swim without your dog present, be sure to keep them in a separate area where they can’t see the pool and become excitable. You might want to occupy your dog with a favorite chew toy while you’re swimming.

Acclimate Your Dog to Swimming

If you want your dog with you, gradually acclimate them to water, so they feel comfortable swimming. Be sure to practice before hopping in the pool because not all dogs are instinctually able to doggie paddle. When you introduce your dog to the water, start by supporting their back end as they swim, this encourages them to start kicking with both all legs. If your dog seems anxious, a life jacket can provide an added layer of security and comfort while they learn to swim.

Contact the experts at Captain Cook Pool & Spa in Hawaii if you’re looking to create a dog-friendly swimming area and pool deck. Since 1980, this family-owned company been providing pool construction, pool light replacement, equipment repairs, and innovative pool solutions for homeowners on the Big Island. To discuss your vision for a dream pool, give them a call today at (808) 323-3063 or visit their website for more information.