{"id":42685,"date":"2024-06-18T11:31:22","date_gmt":"2024-06-18T10:31:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petspyjamas.com\/blog\/?p=42685"},"modified":"2024-06-18T11:31:24","modified_gmt":"2024-06-18T10:31:24","slug":"preventing-dogs-drowning-how-to-have-a-safer-summer-with-your-dog","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petspyjamas.com\/blog\/preventing-dogs-drowning-how-to-have-a-safer-summer-with-your-dog\/","title":{"rendered":"Preventing Dogs Drowning: How to Have a Safer Summer with Your Dog"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

There is nothing better than a beach break with your favourite furry friend! Watching them play in the sand and splash in the water brings great joy to pet owners. But sadly, the sea can bring risks to our dogs. This summer, we have partnered with the award-winning First Aid For Life<\/a> & First Aid For Pets<\/a> to learn about some key tips on how to keep your dog safe when on or around water.<\/span><\/p>\n

Prevention is key to avoid dogs drowning in the first place. Dogs instinctively know how to swim or ‘doggie paddle,’ but are still at risk around large bodies of water, especially the sea and swimming pools. Always be extra cautious when you are near water with your dog. If you feel they might make a dash for it, make sure you put them on the lead until you are at a safe distance.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is important to keep in mind how the water and surroundings can play a big factor in your dog\u2019s safety. Here are some common issues that you should be prepared for that could help.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Dog<\/p>\n

Choppy Water & Strong Currents & Respiratory Difficulty<\/b><\/h2>\n

If your dog is swimming in water where the current is very strong, or there are lots of waves, they may tire more quickly. Dogs don\u2019t understand about preserving their energy by treading water, so may become exhausted. This puts them at risk of drowning and difficulty breathing due to water inhalation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Open & Cold Water & Swimming Pools<\/b><\/h2>\n

If you head off on a boating adventure, a fitted life jacket could help save your pet\u2019s life. Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, it helps them to float if they fall in. A life jacket will also give people trying to save them something to grab onto. If the water is partially cold, be sure to have blankets and towels at the ready. Additionally, be prepared to treat hypothermia in dogs exposed to cold water by administering supportive measures. This includes providing warmth and monitoring their body temperature.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Dog<\/p>\n

Steep & Slippery Surroundings<\/b><\/h2>\n

Remember that most dogs are much heavier in water than on land and so may struggle when they are trying to get out – especially when they are tired after a swim. Or they could simply get stuck in the sand, mud or underwater weeds.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is also important to think about their breed, as well as whether they are small dogs or large dogs. The build of short-nosed breeds (like pugs, bulldogs, boxers, shih tzus, and other brachycephalic breeds), makes it such that swimming is more dangerous for them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dogs and Near Drowning – What Every Pet Owner Should Know<\/b><\/h2>\n

Pet parents need to know some basic first aid as well as what to do in a medical emergency – it will help with your dog\u2019s recovery as well as prevent dry drowning. If you find your pet unconscious in water (in the sea, lakes, rivers and swimming pools):<\/span><\/p>\n