Following a summer of heatwaves, current predictions reveal that the warm weather is set to continue throughout September.
Melanie Sainsbury, Veterinary Expert, and natural pet food brand, Natures Menu, have put together some life-saving tips on how to keep dogs safe around water for owners whose furry friends like to cool down in ponds, rivers or the sea.
Dog walks are an essential part of a furry companion’s healthy routine, and in the UK, we encounter many different landscapes on our dog walks. From lush forests to jagged mountains, there is always a sense of adventure to be had when out for a ramble with your trusty companion.
Bodies of water – such as beaches, lakes, reservoirs, canals and rivers – can be found on most dog routes, and warm weather will mean that dogs may be inclined to head in for a dip to cool themselves down. It is incredibly important that dog owners are aware of what to look out for when it comes to water safety, as some hazards are not as obvious as others.
Do your research
Ensure you research the area of water before making a trip. Some locations and areas have risks publicised about blue-green algae which blooms in water sources. It can be poisonous, even fatal if ingested by dogs. Research the safety of the water and ensure it is deemed ‘safe to swim’.
Be wary of unfamiliar water
Try not to allow your dog to jump into water you are unfamiliar with. This can pose a severe risk – hidden dangers beneath the water, such as branches or discarded rubbish, can cause very serious injuries. Shallow water can also inflict damage on a dog’s joints if they jump in too fast and hit the bottom.
Be wary of currents
Take care if your dog is paddling in rivers and seas, or any water that moves. Strong currents can very easily carry dogs with shorter legs away and flint stones can be sharp enough to cut pads. Following flag guidance on beaches is also essential, as these are designed to help prevent people and animals being dragged out to sea by hidden riptides.
Pick up the floating poos!
Always pick up after your dog, even if it’s a floater! Some dogs will poop in the water as their body relaxes whilst swimming. Try to always clean up after your canine companion, as samples are taken regularly from popular swimming areas. Left uncleared, these can pollute the water and surrounding banks.
Don’t force your dog in to water
Never carry or drag your dog into the water if they do not want to enter. This can cause a lifelong fear and is dangerous for their health. A panicked dog trying to swim can easily inhale water into their lungs causing serious breathing difficulties or lung infections. It also goes without saying, but you should never throw your dog into water.
Bring a life jacket
If you are taking a trip out on a boat or paddle-board, equip your dog with a life jacket. These are especially designed to save your dog should they fall in or if they become overwhelmed or tired. Lifejackets also often have handles on the top of the back to help you lift dogs out of trouble if needed. Many places that have vessels for rent can also supply loan life jackets for dogs for the duration of your trip. Young puppies or dogs unfamiliar with water should wear a suitable harness with long line attached, so they can be pulled to safety if necessary.
Check if it is a dog friendly area
One more for beachgoers – if travelling to the beach to let your dog have a cool-off, always check the dog friendly areas beforehand and always clean up after your pet. One left poop could be enough to ban all dogs from a beach for the protection of the public.
Natures Menu uses the highest quality ingredients from trusted suppliers. Its range of dog and cat food offers highly nutritional, complete & balanced products in a variety of premium quality, deboned meats, with vegetables, botanicals and superfoods, and no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
