{"id":112,"date":"2020-07-16T11:38:00","date_gmt":"2020-07-16T18:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.eastsacvet.com\/blog\/?p=112"},"modified":"2022-03-09T11:29:37","modified_gmt":"2022-03-09T19:29:37","slug":"making-a-splash-diving-into-dog-swimming-safety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.eastsacvet.com\/blog\/making-a-splash-diving-into-dog-swimming-safety\/","title":{"rendered":"Making a Splash: Diving Into Dog Swimming Safety"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Whether you are chilling with your dog poolside or heading to the beach with your four-legged friend, water safety is a must for everyone. Many dog owners make the mistake of assuming their dogs are adept swimmers naturally, but this is not always the case. Accidents around bodies of water are common, and this is prime season for these incidents to occur<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Swimming with your fur pal can be safe and enjoyable with a little planning. The team at East Sacramento Veterinary Center<\/a> is here with some dog swimming safety tips for you to dive into.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Get to Know Your Dog\u2019s Ability in the Water<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Even if your pet is a Labrador Retriever, you should never dunk your dog in a pool or body of water<\/a> before knowing they are comfortable. Acclimate your pet to water first by starting in a shallow body of water, getting in with them to make them feel safe. Splash around together and throw something they want to retrieve, like a floatable toy, and observe how they swim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Some breeds need swimming lessons, believe it or not! Others are not equipped to swim at all, like brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, etc) or short, stocky dogs, like Corgis. To play it safe, assume that your pet needs to learn to swim slowly and in shallow water before you head to the lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for Safe Swimming with Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you begin to swim with your furry one, start in a shallow body of water. If possible, get into the water first, asking your pet to come in. Make sure they are enjoying the water before assessing their swimming capabilities. Splash around and play with them in the shallow end to see how at ease they are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your pet is comfortable swimming, you can move into deeper water. A game of fetch with something floatable can be a good way to get your dog out into deep water, and will compel them to come back to you when you call. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other suggestions for safely swimming with your dog include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n