Dog swimming rules

How to have a relaxing and safe swim with your dog? Just follow some simple rules and enjoy a relaxing day by the water.

Whether you love or hate the heat, in most cases it leads us to water. It's the best way to cool down and have a lot of fun. We can't leave our dogs at home in the heat, but not every dog loves water. Therefore, if this should be your pet's first time in the water, it is necessary to proceed prudently. I've written more on this topic in the article “How to "teach" your dog to swim”.

Whether we're going to water for the first time or for the hundredth time, there are a few simple rules to follow for the safety and well-being of all involved. First, it is important to keep in mind that we are taking the dog with us when choosing a location. If you are going to a public bathing place, first find out if dogs are allowed and under what conditions. If you're going to a river, choose a place with good access to the water and a slow stream. You must also be mindful of fishermen. If you're heading to a pond or lake, make sure the water is not green. Your dog could get poisoned by cyanobacteria and algae. Wherever you go, you should stay in the shade.

Don't let your eyes off your dog when at the water. If there are other people around, don't let your dog annoy them or steal their snacks while they're in the water. Your four-legged partner should come when you call him, even if it he's in the water. Do not let him approach another dog, especially in the water, without the owner's permission. The other dog may not be a good swimmer, and the presence of another dog could throw him off.

Don't forget to bring floating toys, a quick-drying towel, a travel bowl, dog waste bags, a leash and a collar for your dog A life jacket may also be useful if your dog doesn't feel comfortable in the water, treats for praise and motivation, an anchor peg, if the situation requires it, cooling pad if it's hot , and a first aid kit for dogs just in case.

Does your dog love water, or does he not feel comfortable in it? Do you have any favorite places for swimming?

 

Related articles

Dogs and cats of the world III: Dogs in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka – a holiday paradise in south-eastern Asia, the promised land for travellers. It is no problem to communicate here in English, the prices are relatively low, the locals are poor, but friendly… However, to dog lovers, apart from the fairy-tale...

Cuddling with cats can be healing as well

A pet brings joy, that’s what everybody who lives with one in a joint household knows. With its playfulness and unconditional love, it often distracts us from stressful thoughts and duties. It teaches us to live here and now, to concentrate on the...

Dog history IV: Bobbie

In this series, we will get to know famous dog personalities. Dogs, after all, play an important role in our life, so let us take a look what have they already managed to achieve during the time of us living together. Bobbie walked an incredible 4000...

Cat records

Same as with dog record holders, we will find many cat records as well. For example, do you know, what is the record in the number of cats living under one roof? 

Dog records

Are you interested in how big the tallest dog is, how small is the smallest one or perhaps how many balls a dog managed to stuff in its mouth? Among the typical records such as age or size, we will find also a few more peculiar ones, so let us have a...

The mystery of cat’s purring

Everyone, who has a cat at home, is definitely aware of its beneficial influence. When you are down or worried, nothing beats a purring ball of fur settled on your lap or a cat which massages you with its small claws. However, did you know, that...

Cat trees and scratching posts

It is clear to every cat owner, that a fluffy needs its own place where it will feel safe, where it can laze about, play, scratch and climb. Not every cat will like a scratching post or a tree, but if your cat belongs among those who love it, the...