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The Truth About Dogs & Swimming:

• Not all dogs swim well enough to be completely safe in or around water.
• Basset hounds, French bulldogs, and English bulldogs, for example, have very short legs that usually cannot move quickly enough to keep their bodies afloat.
• Dogs breeds that naturally have a low body fat percentage (such as Doberman pinschers and Boxers) are more likely to sink than swim.
• While many dogs love water and can swim without a problem, others do not like water or are afraid of it. FEAR can inhibit the ability of any dog to swim.
• Remember, any dog can drown and hypothermia is always a risk.

Assess Your Dogs Swimming Skills Before Your Outing

1) Begin by assessing your dogs skills in a swimming pool or near the shore of the lake or ocean.

2) Never throw your dog in the water – introduce your dog to swimming slowly while being calm, positive and encouraging - and staying close to him/her in the water.

3) If your dog seems happy being in the water and proficient at swimming, keep your first outing brief and plan a series of swims for increasingly longer times, making sure to gage the energy level of your dog, until you are comfortable with his skills.

If your dog is resistant to water, or will be on a boat, buy a canine personal flotation device (PFD) - also known as a life jacket. This will keep a dog afloat in case they fall off of a boat or get pulled out from shore by current.

Boating? Purchase & Use A Life Jacket (PFD) For Your Dog

No matter how good a swimmer your dog is, when he's on a boat, put him in a life jacket. Groups of people on a boat tend to think someone elseis watching the dog. Bumpy waves, hitting a wake or many other surprises can send your dog flying off the boat. Your dog may decide to chase a flying fish, pelican, seagull or some other moving object and jump off himself, only to find he can't keep up with the boat or get back on ananchored boat.

• Take your dog with you when purchasing a PFD so you can try it on for correct sizing.
• Look for a PDF that has a handle on the back of the vest that allows the owner to lift the dog out of the water if you need to save him..
• Choose a vest that's neon yellow or orange. This can help you see your dog if you need to rescue him.

Plan Sun Protection For Your Dog

Dogs get sunburned just like people, especially those with short fur and/or pink skin. Pink noses and muzzels with thin, fine hair are very susceptible to sunburn. Look for sun block products made especially for dogs if you think your dog may be easily sunburned. Let your dog enjoy the sun for only short periods of time (10-15 minutes) and provide a shaded area that he can enjoy.

Beware of DOG Heatstroke in Summer

Dogs also suffer heatstroke just like we do - but they can't tell you so you have to be aware of the symptoms. Watch for these
early symptoms of Dog Heatstroke

• heavy panting
• rapid breathing
• excessive drooling
• bright red gums and tongue
• and standing four-square in an attempt to maintain balance

At the first signs of Dog Heatstroke call your vet. In the meantime, put the dog in the shade Cool your dog down by applying rubbing alcohol to his/her paw pads. Apply ice packs to the groin area. Wet the dog down with lukewarm water or a wet towel. Give the dog ice chips to lick or a small amount of water to drink. Give the dog Pedialyte liquid to restore electrolytes if recommended by
your vet

If your dog shows any signs of the Advanced Stages of Dog Heatstroke, seek veterinary help immediately.

Advanced Stages of Dog Heatstroke:

• White or blue gums
• Lethargy or unwillingness to move
• Uncontrollable urination or defecation
• Labored, noisy breathing
• and shock