Ways To Keep Your Dog From Drowning

In North America it is estimated that there are currently 58 million dogs and 62 million cats. Unfortunately, every year thousands of these pets drown. Due to the fact that many people do not report these drownings, there is no way to know exactly how many pets actually die this way. Although, 99 % of dogs can swim, we have a false sense of security when we see our dogs running and jumping in and out of the water at the lake or our back yard pool. The reason for this is that most dogs (and a few cats) grow very tired after only swimming very short distances. When they are not able to find purchase anywhere with their paws, a debilitating panic sets in quickly, and this is what will cause them to drown. But it is more than just a problem for pets, for loving pet parents will selflessly and without hesitation dive into a frozen lake or rapidly flowing river in an attempt to rescue their animal.

How can we prevent our pet from suffering this horrible fate? Here are a few valuable tips:

1. Never take it for granted that your dog can swim.

2. Keep a close eye on your aging pet. They cannot swim as long or as far as they once did.

3. Never toss a cat or a dog into the water. They will panic from the initial shock.

4. Obtain a canine flotation device (CFD) or a pet life jacket for your pet. Ensure that they are wearing the device whenever they are close to the water. There are many times that a pet has fallen of a dock or moving boat without anyone knowing.

5. Solar blankets/pool covers look like a solid surfaces to a pet. If your animals are near the pool, it is a good idea to remove them when possible.

6. Fix a pet safety gate to the entrance to the pool area.

7. Make sure that your pet is not able to get into your neighbor’s pool area.

8. Install a pool alarm for a pond or your pool.

9. Don’t let your pet play around fast flowing water.

10. Make sure your pet stays away from frozen lakes and rivers.

Observing your pet drown fills one with a guilt that is devastating and an event that will remain with you forever. I highly recommend that you go out and inspect your property for any water hazards. It doesn’t matter if it is winter or summer where you live. Go fix any water hazards NOW, and protect your pet from a fate of drowning. If your pet is going to be anywhere near water, make sure they are wearing a canine floatation device or pet life jacket.

Jake writes numerous articles on the dog life jacket and about the safety aspects of dog life jackets to keep your pet safe whilst near water.