Paws in the Pool: A Dog’s Guide to Safe Summer Swimming

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend, and swimming can be a delightful activity for both dogs and their owners. Whether you’re heading to the sea, a river, or a lake or pond in the UK, it's important to ensure your dog's safety and enjoyment. Here are some tips to help you and your dog have a fun and safe swimming experience.

Choose the Right Location

Sea: When taking your dog to the seaside, look for dog-friendly beaches. Be mindful of tides and currents, as these can be strong and unpredictable. Check for any beach rules or restrictions regarding dogs.

Rivers: Ensure the river is slow-moving and shallow enough for your dog to comfortably swim. Avoid areas with strong currents or slippery banks that could make getting in and out difficult.

Lakes and Ponds: Choose clean, freshwater bodies where there’s minimal risk of algae blooms or pollution. Avoid stagnant water, which can harbour harmful bacteria.

Safety Precautions

Check Water Quality: Poor water quality can pose health risks to your dog. Avoid areas with signs warning of pollution or algae blooms. Blue-green algae, in particular, can be toxic to dogs.

Supervise Your Dog: Always keep an eye on your dog while they are in the water. Not all dogs are strong swimmers, and even those that are can tire quickly. Use a long lead if necessary to maintain control.

Life Jackets: Consider investing in a dog life jacket, especially if your dog is not a confident swimmer or if you’re venturing into deeper waters. Life jackets provide buoyancy and make it easier to spot your dog in the water.

After Swimming

Rinse Off: After swimming, rinse your dog with fresh water to remove salt, sand, or any potential pollutants. This helps prevent skin irritation and ingestion of harmful substances.

Dry Thoroughly: Dry your dog thoroughly, paying special attention to their ears to prevent infections. Regularly check for any signs of ear infections, such as redness, swelling, or a foul smell.

Hydration and Rest: Swimming is a vigorous activity. Ensure your dog has access to fresh water to drink and a shady spot to rest after their swim.

Additional Tips

Training: Teach your dog basic commands like “come” and “stay” to help manage them around water. Familiarise your dog with water gradually if they’re new to swimming.

Emergency Plan: Be prepared for emergencies. Know the location of the nearest vet and have a basic first aid kit on hand.