Summer Water Safety for Pets

Most dog owners assume that swimming "comes naturally" to a dog. Many believe that all they have to do is throw their dog into the water and it will "doggie paddle". Nothing could be farther from the truth!

Here are a few simple tips to introducing your dog to the water.

1. Introduce your dog to the water gradually in a non-threatening way.
2. Try standing in the water and calling to your dog.
3. Never push, throw or force your dog into the water!
4. Just as with a child, never leave your dog unattended by a swimming pool.
5. Support thier weight from underneath until they start paddling.
6. Show them how to get out.
7. Please consider purchasing a dog safety ramp such as Skamper Ramp to make it easier for your dog to exit the water safely.

If your dog is drowning in a lake or pool and you can not simply reach out to grab the dog, try hooking your dog's collar with a pole. If you must row out to the dog with a boat, take along a flotation device. If you must swim out to the dog yourself, make sure you have a rope or something that will assist you in towing your dog to shore.

The next step is to drain water from your dog's lungs. Your can do this with a small dog by turning them upside down for a few secons and give quick shakes to drain water.

With larger dogs lay the dog down on its side preferably on a slope with the head lower than the rest of the body to facilitate draining. sweep the inside of your dog's moth with 2 fingers to make sure nothing is blocking his airway. If your dog is not breathing start artifical respiration. If there is no heartbeat start CPR immediately.
How to Administer CPR to your Dog.

A lot has been said here about the dangers of water. While keeping all the safety issues in mend...don't forget to have FUN with your dog this summer! Don't forget to visit Brown Dog Treasures.com for fantastic water toys.