Swimming With Fido

Do you enjoy swimming? We’re lucky to live so close to Florida’s beautiful white sand beaches. Going for a dip is a great way to cool off on those sweltering summer days. Many of our canine friends also enjoy going swimming. The water can be dangerous for Fido, though, so you’ll need to take some precautions. Read on as a Sarasota, FL vet lists some tips for swimming with your pup.

Lessons

Some dogs are natural swimmers, but others need to learn how to swim. Take some time with Fido, and support him as he is learning. Encourage him with lots of praise. Don’t force your furry buddy into deep water. That’s extremely dangerous! It could also scare your pooch, and leave him with a lifelong fear of water.

Safety Gear

If your four-legged friend can’t swim, it’s best to get him a doggy lifejacket. (If you want to get some laughs, choose one with a shark fin.) Make sure Fido’s lifejacket fits him well! This is also something you can use as your pet is learning how to navigate in water.

Water

Dogs can get thirsty very quickly running around on hot days. Fido can overheat in as little as 10 minutes! Make sure your furry best buddy always has fresh water available. If you take him to a pool, don’t let him slurp up chlorinated water.

Supervision

The biggest safety rule is really to just pay close attention to your canine companion. Never leave Fido unattended near water, even for just a minute!

Paws

When Fido’s feet get wet, the skin on his ‘toe beans’ will get very sensitive. This is much like the way our skin gets wrinkled after we’ve gone swimming. Your pup can very easily burn his paws on hot ground or cut them on sharp rocks or shells. Pay attention to the ground, and try to keep him on soft grass as much as you can.

Bag

You’ll want to pack a beach bag for your furry friend. Some of the things you’d want to include are towels, paw balm, sunscreen, a pet first-aid kit, a collapsible dish or doggy water bottle, treats, and an umbrella. Your canine pal may also appreciate a cooling vest.

Do you have questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your local Sarasota, FL veterinary clinic, today. We’re always happy to help!