What Dog Owners Need to Know About Water Safety 

Do All Dogs Swim?

While some dogs are natural swimmers, not every pup feels at home in the water. Before you allow your dog to take a dip, consider:

• The breed . According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Labrador Retrievers and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers were bred to retrieve birdsfrom the water. These dogs, and other breeds, have the physical and behavioral attributes to make swimming possible.
• The dog's structure . Some dogs don't have a swimmer's body. Pups with short legs and long bodies may have a difficult time swimming.
• The dog's temperament . Even if your dog has the physical traits necessary to swim, they may not feel comfortable or confidant in the water.

Even though some dogs can swim, you may not want to let your playful pup dive into every body of water they see. The decision to let your dog swim, or not, depends on several factors. These include your comfort level, the ability to supervise your dog, and water safety.

Should a Dog Swim in a Chlorinated Pool?

You enjoy a regular dip in your backyard pool. But should your dog? Safety issues to consider before you allow your dog to splash the day away include:

• Supervision . Like children, dogs also require constant supervision while in the water. If you can't watch your pup in the pool, don't allow them to swim.
• Chlorine . Is pool chlorine safe for dogs? Chlorine can irritate your dog's sensitive eyes or ears. Along with irritation, chlorine tablets are toxic. Keep these, and all pool chemicals, away from your dog.
• Ability to swim . If your dog isn't a natural swimmer, they'll need a life vest. Choose a life jacket that's specifically made for dogs and never use a human flotation device.
• Cyanobacteria . This potentially toxic bacteria can form in a pool or natural body of water. Even though it's microscopic on its own, in clumps the bacteria looks like blue-green algae blooms.

If your dog experiences skin, ear, or eye irritation after a swim in a chlorinated pool, contact the vet as soon as possible. The veterinarian can examine your dog and recommend a treatment for the irritation or allergy.

Should a Dog Swim in the Ocean?

Pools aren't the only swimming option for your dog. Whether you live near the beach or plan to take your pup on the family vacation, sea swimming safety considerations include:

• Supervision . Your dog also needs constant supervision while in the ocean. Given the size difference between a pool and the ocean, you need to maintain a closer distance to your dog when they take a dip.
• Salt water . Salt water can cause stomach upset or serious health-related issues. If your dog drinks enough water, the sodium could cause a toxic reaction such as severe dehydration or kidney damage.
• Other swimmers/dogs . Unlike your backyard pool, the ocean is filled with other swimmers. If your dog doesn't play well with others or is easily intimidated, the beach isn't the best place for them to swim.

Along with salt water toxicity, the summer-time beach heat can also pose a safety risk for your dog. If your dog seems sluggish, has signs of dehydration, or pants profusely, provide fresh water and plenty of shade (or an air conditioned space) immediately. Call the vet's office if your dog doesn't respond or their condition worsens.

Do you have more questions about swimming safety and your dog? Contact the Pet Medical Center of Vero Beach for more information.