Community Corner

Shelby Says: Dog Swimming Safety is a Must

Check out these water safety tips for your dog before you head to the beach or pool.

The beach can be a great place for your canine to get some exercise and experience something more exciting than the average walk. It’s also a great way to keep them cool on a hot summer day. Shelby Says she loves to go to the beach and swim and chase her ball into the water. But she knows not all dogs love the water.

Most would think the doggie paddle comes naturally to all dogs but Shelby Says that’s not always the case. So when taking your animal to the beach or pool for the first time, don’t force them into something they may not like.

 

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Go to the beach during an off-peak time. Go when there aren’t big crowds or other dogs around, Shelby Says. Dogs can get scared and apprehensive about swimming the first few times.

Calm water is key. When your dog is still getting used to the water, make sure it’s a relatively calm water day. Don’t send your pup into 3-foot waves, Shelby Says. 

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Toss a ball or stick into the water. Not to far out, just far enough that the pup can still touch the bottom. Let your dog sniff around and slowly wade its way into the water. Throw the ball or stick a little further each time. But be prepared to go get it yourself if your dog decides its done playing.

Bring the right type of ball for the water. Get a ball that has some texture to it so your dog can still grab it when it’s wet and slippery. Shelby Says, it’s not a fun day at the beach without her swimming ball. It’s like going to the beach without a book to read for a human, Shelby Says.

Get in the water with your canine friend. Have them swim to you or support them underneath their belly to teach them how to doggie paddle. It’ll make them feel more comfortable and trust the new environment, Shelby Says.

Get a life jacket. If your dog really doesn’t like the water but you do, then purchase a life vest. Doggie life vests are also suggested for boaters who like to bring their dogs onboard. Shelby Says she enjoys boat rides. It’s a mix of her two favorite things, the breeze in her face and swimming. As much as she’s not the biggest fan of the life vest fashion statement, Shelby Says, she knows safety comes first. Getpetswet.com offers a wide variety of doggie life vests and other products. 

Never throw a dog into the water. If they don’t want to swim, don’t force it. Shelby Says maybe it’ll come later or maybe your dog just isn’t going to be a swimmer.

Sand is just as fun as water. If your dog turns out to not be a swimmer, she may like the sandy beach even better. Shelby Says she loves digging holes in the sand and hiding her ball. 

Keep a watchful eye. Remember to always keep an eye on your pup while they’re swimming. They can get into trouble too in just a split second.

Don’t drink the water. It’s not always easy but it’s best to try to prevent your dog from drinking the ocean, river or pool water. It’s not healthy for them. Shelby Says she likes to drink river water and doesn’t understand it’s not as clean as her water bowl water, but she’s easily distracted and will stop when she’s told not to.

Shelby Says to always remember to clean up after your animal and always make sure to visit a dog-friendly beach. Dogs aren’t welcome at all beaches.


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