Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine! If you plan on taking your pups for a swim this summer, that’s great! But there are a few things you should know ahead of time! Whether you plan on taking your furry friends to the beach, lake, or the pool in your backyard, here are some helpful tips to keep them healthy and happy this season:
- Invest in a life jacket!
Whether your dog is a trained swimmer or a pup just starting out, having him or her wear a life jacket is always a smart idea. This is especially important if you’re swimming in a lake or ocean - you never know which way the current will go or how your dog will react. Better safe than sorry! There are plenty of life jacket options on the market these days and they can help save your pup’s life. - Brush that coat!
Brushing your dog and rinsing them off before and after swimming can help to prevent their fur from matting. Also, brushing immediately before and after will help to reduce that mildew, wet-dog smell! Check out our online shop for a variety of affordable brush options. - Hydrate their skin!
Keeping your dog’s skin hydrated if they do swim is extremely important. You may think the water is hydration enough, but that’s not the case. Whether they’re swimming in freshwater or the salty ocean, it’s critical to invest in a high-quality hydrating shampoo or conditioner for times like these. Of course, you can always stop by one of our four Puff & Fluff Spa locations to treat your pet to a post-swim grooming. Check out our different service options here! We’d love to meet your furry friends. - Keep an eye on your dog at all times!
Unfortunately, way too many pets drown each and every year. No matter how seasoned a swimmer you think your pet is, never ever take your eyes off of him or her. Even the most shallow bit of water can be hazardous to your furry friend. Also, keep an eye that your curious four-legged buddy isn’t drinking the pool, lake, or ocean water. We all know how mischievous our pets can be - don’t assume that they won’t get themselves into trouble. Never leave your pet unattended near any body of water. Leaving them alone for even the quickest second can turn disastrous.
Of course, you shouldn’t be scared to bring your dog to the beach or lake with you this summer. As long as you follow the above tips and practice common sense, you’ll have a great time! Just be sure your dog is in good health and can handle themselves in the water. Don’t force them to dive in if they’re extremely nervous about it - as with us humans, some dogs are natural mermaids, while others would rather be on dry land!
Since we got my Papillon, we have been teaching her about the pool because it is not fenced and I’d be devastated if the worst were to happen. She knows to go cool off if we are playing and she needs a break to go to the first step of the pool and sit there until she is done cooling down. We never rush her and it’s cute (and good) that she always looks at us before jumping in like, “It’s okay and watch me knowing I’m in the pool”. We also have a life jacket for her and she has been learning to swim in it in the pool. So, she CAN swim without it but we have taught her that when we put the life jacket on it’s kind of like putting on her walking halter, “Time for fun” and instead of walking it’s time in the pool. Also, since she likes to be with us in the pool, when she’s tired, she has her own floaty that she gets on so she can be with us in the pool.
Like anything, it does take time but its worth it and when we get the chance to go to the lake or ocean, we know she will have the training needed to be safe.
Hey Brianna! That is absolutely true – everything takes practice and training. I love that your little one is now associating her life jacket with fun, water time! Thank you for being such a responsible pet momma!