Swimming Pool Safety for Dogs

With the hot weather that we are currently experiencing, we are getting asked our opinion of whether dogs should be allowed in the family pool. Although it is recommended by most in the swimming pool industry that dogs not be allowed in pools (due to additional chemical requirements and dog hair in the filter), we have always felt that dogs that enjoy being in the water should be allowed to do so. The exception to that would be vinyl liner pools, as a dog’s claws could puncture the liner material.

With that said, safety is something to be concerned about when allowing a dog in or around the pool. Several times per year, we hear of dogs drowning in swimming pools. Mostly it is due to the fact that we sometimes overlook pool safety for our dogs. Following are some pool safety tips for dogs:

1. Watch your dogs as you would your children when they are in the pool area. This might sound absurd, but not all dogs are able to take care of themselves when they are in the pool. If your dog does not take to water, you might want to consider installing a fence around the pool.
2. Have a water dish for your dog instead of allowing them to drink out of the pool. The water in a chemically balanced pool should not harm the dog, but if the dog falls into the pool while trying to get a drink, the dog may become startled and be unable to recover.
3. Teach your dog how to get out of the pool. Most dog drownings in pools occur because the dog does not know how to get out of the pool and simply swims around looking for an exit and wears itself out.
4. Consider getting a life vest for your dog, especially if they are not great swimmers or tend to tire easily.

As previously mentioned, an area that is often overlooked when it comes to pools and pets is the increased amount of chemicals that are needed in the pool. Therefore, don’t forget to pay particular attention to your water chemistry if you allow your dog to swim.

One more thing, be sure to keep the lids tight on all chemical containers and clean up any chemical spills to prevent accidents with the family pet.

Happy swimming to you and your dog!

If you live in Denton County and need pool care, weekly maintenance pool service, pool equipment repair, renovations, or outdoor living backyard upgrades give us a call at 940-384-7665. Additionally, the retail pool supplies store and showroom are open 7 days a week throughout most of the year.