Dog Water Safety Tips
Spending time in or near the water with your canine friend can be great fun for both of you.
Being alert to possible dangers can prevent the fun from becoming a disaster. Think about the common sense rules we have for our families - then just apply those rules to our dogs as well.

Rule Number One:
Everyone takes a swimming test.
Don't assume that all dogs are natural swimmers.  Even the breeds that are meant to like water may need some encouragement.  With owner patience, most dogs can learn to swim, at least enough so that they won't panic if they find themselves in over their heads.  Tucker loves to just wade and splash, but not swim.  When we kayak, I stay close to shore and make sure he wears his life jacket.  This year I'm really going to put some time into teaching him to relax if he can't touch bottom. (There are a number of good sites that can help with ideas for swimming lessons.)
 

Rule Number Two:
Don’t drink the water.
You  tell your kids not drink from the lake, the river, or the pool; they might listen.  Be aware of your dog as well, and remember that some dogs will drink any water they find.  Lake or pond water, even if it looks clean, can contain dangerous algae or it may have been treated with chemicals to prevent algae.  Also, ponds and lakes may contain run-off materials from surrounding farms or businesses.  The salt water from the ocean or the treated water from your swimming pool can make your dog sick, if he drinks it.  Even be careful of the water you use in a little kiddy splash pool for the back yard. If you fill it with a hose, read the hose label.  Don’t let your dog drink the water,  if the hose is not been rated for drinking.  Have fresh water available for your dog at all times (using a travel bowl like the Ruff Wear Quencher).



Rule Number Three:
Everyone in the boat wears a life jacket.
In many states, there is a law requiring that passengers under a specified age wear a life vest.  This rule should apply to your dog as well.  Your dog may fall or jump overboard.   A good life vest should have padding under the dog’s chin to help keep their head above the water.  A good life vest should also have some kind of a grab handle as you can assist them out of the water. The fit is critical: your dog should not be able to slip or fall out of the jacket; it should allow the dog to move freely and swim in a comfortable, horizontal position.  An added benefit of a life jacket for your dog is that most come in bright colors that help you locate your dog in the water.

Rule Number Four:
Know When to Quit.
Dogs can be having so much fun, or be so focused on “the ball”, or be so committed to staying with us that they can get overtired.  Know the signs of a fatigued or stressed dogs, so that you can help your dog avoid trouble.  Dogs use their tails as rudders, carrying them high in the water.  Dragging its tail can be the first sign that a dog is tiring. (Of course, this doesn’t help with the “no-tail” breeds like Aussies.)  Trying to climb on another swimmer is another early sign.  Choking and gasping for air are obvious signs - and may indicate that you didn’t pay attention as soon as you might have.  You can easily use the assistance handle of a life jacket to help a tired dog out of the water.
 

These are the June Tips.  A new one will added each week.