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As temperatures rise, your pup might be tempted to hop in the family pool or cool off in a nearby lake. Even in shallow areas, practice pet water safety. Most dogs will naturally paddle if they can’t touch the bottom, but they’re still susceptible to injury. Stick to the following rules while they learn to swim to avoid an unwanted trip to the pet hospital.

Do:

Start with a swim vest.

If your dog is learning how to swim, empower them with a vest. Ask your pet hospital which type is most appropriate for your furry friend. The life preserver should fit comfortably over the pup’s body and keep them afloat while they try to paddle with their legs. Start by letting them wear the vest around the house, so they become comfortable with it. When they’re ready to swim, keep them on a leash and let them play in the shallow end of a pond or pool. It may only take a few lessons for them to get the hang of it.

Demonstrate exits.

Like humans, dogs can become exhausted while swimming, so ensure they know how to get out of the water. Show them where the exits are, such as stairs in a pool or a ramp on a boat. Never assume it’s obvious. If necessary, first guide them in and out of the water using these exits. Then, stand at the end of the ramp or stairs and call for them when it’s time to get out.

pet hospitalDon’t:

Force swimming.

If your dog doesn’t want to swim, don’t make them. They can become uncomfortable and develop anxiety around the water. Swimming can also make them feel trapped, so first get them acclimated with the area and let them enter the water on their own.

Leave your dog unattended.

As with children, never let your dog swim alone. They may have trouble getting out or end up swimming too far away. This is especially important in older, weaker pets or those who have been diagnosed with a health issue at the pet hospital. Be attentive and call them out of the water when you’re ready to go inside.

 

Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital of Southgate, KY, is committed to keeping pets safe and makes owner education a priority. This full-service pet hospital offers a wide scope of services for domestic, farm, and exotic animals, including spaying and neutering, pet dental care, and animal vaccinations. They’re open six days a week, and you can call (859) 781-1800 to schedule an exam or urgent care visit. Check out their website to learn more about their vaccination program, and connect on Facebook for news and updates.

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