A dip in the pool is all it takes to beat this sweltering heat. While the promised break from the warm weather is attractive, we still make sure that the environment is safe for our kids. Neglecting pool safety and close supervision will only be met with tragedy, but we seem to forget to do the same for our pets.
Indeed, just like kids, you may need to take extra precautions to make sure your pets can enjoy pool time without hazards. Here, we’ll discuss important tips on pool safety for pets to make sure your pets will be safe.
1. Teach your pets how to swim
According to the American Kennel Association, an effective way to get dogs acquainted with the pool is to carry them there and gently lower them into the water. You should help them swim around the pool and guide them through the steps so that they can get out.
The same can be done with other pets as common as cats or as rare as otters. You can also choose to get an above ground pool and slowly teach them how to swim in a controlled environment.
2. Make them wear floaters or vests
As you are teaching them how to swim, you can check their progress by making them wear pet flotation gears like arm floaters or vests. Find ones that are comfortable and will not be too hot for them to wear.
These are also perfect if you are hosting a pool party and may not be able to supervise them closely.
3. Familiarize pets with the pool
Just like kids, pets can panic in the water too, mainly because they cannot see what is underneath them. Other than guiding them to the steps, you can also teach them to swim to a specific area if they want to be carried out of the water, but make sure you are also watching that area.
4. Install a pet ladder
A pet ramp or ladder may be more accessible than steps. In this case, have one installed in your pool so that your pets have an easier alternative to entering and exiting the pool.
As a tip, if you are still getting your pool made, consider choosing fiberglass pools. These are pre-molded, but you can easily request to have swim-outs, benches, steps, and ramps created for it.
5. Do not let them drink pool water
Some pools, especially those made of concrete, are porous which means it is more susceptible to algae build-up.
If yours is made of concrete, make sure to drain the water and brush the entirety of the pool to clean the algae off, as well as the residues of high-level chemicals used to kill the unwanted bacteria.
On the other hand, fiberglass pools have safer waters because of its non-porous surface. It does not have the capacity to increase the pH level of the pool and are, therefore, incapable of giving algae a home in your pool.
6. Swim with them
Pool safety for pets requires that you supervise your pets even if you think they are already strong swimmers. Two things are assured when you swim them:
- You can be there when an emergency situation arises.
- They will panic less and enjoy swimming more when they are playing with you.
Allow your pets and yourself to enjoy your much-needed pool break without worrying about accidents and injuries by keeping these pool safety tips for pets in mind.
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