Keeping your pet safe in and around the pool should be your number one concern. In part 1, we looked at some of the most important steps you can take to ensure your dog’s safety. From installing a safety fence to evaluating your dog’s swimming ability, these drowning-prevention measures are significant. However, they’re only part of the equation. There are also some other concerns you will want to address, in order to make pool time safe and pleasant for your pet – as well as your pool.
Pet Hydration Considerations
While hydration is an important part of promoting health for our canine companions, it’s important to note that drinking pool water is not a healthy option. Not only due to the algae in the water but also due to the chlorine and other chemicals, ingesting pool water can cause health issues for dogs. Chlorine and other chemicals can irritate the gastrointestinal tract of humans as well as animals. While saltwater pools aren’t as problematic in this respect, ingesting water from a saltwater pool can still cause electrolyte problems.
In order to encourage healthy hydration, you should make certain to keep a bowl of fresh water in a shady spot near your pool. By using your pet’s familiar water bowl, you can help ensure that your favorite 4-footed friend knows exactly where to go when he or she is thirsty.
Pet Skin Care Considerations
Not only can chlorine pose a threat when ingested, but it can also pose problems for a dog’s skin. A dog’s skin, just like that of a human, can become irritated due to exposure to harsh chemicals. Even though their skin is usually covered and difficult to see, it can still be sensitive and react with rashes. Due to that potential issue, it’s important to rinse or shower your dog with fresh water before leaving the pool. By doing so, you can not only save your dog from pain but also save your wallet from expensive vet bills. (To protect your pool water and your pool’s filtration system, it’s also a good idea to shower your dog before entering the pool as well.)
Pet Playtime Considerations
As much as your dog may love spending time in the pool – and equally adore their favorite toys – it’s best to keep those favorite things in their own realms. By keeping certain toys relegated to indoor play and other toys only allowed for during pool time, you can reinforce the concept that pool time is different and has a different set of rules. This kind of tangible reminder can not only enhance your pool time play but also help keep your pet safe.
Pool Maintenance Considerations
While you can certainly allow your dog to enjoy pool time with you, if you do decide to include your pet, you should know that there will probably be some added pool maintenance needs as a result. While you can reduce the potential contaminants by showering your dog off before entering the pool, large-capacity cartridge filters and a good skimmer will still be good ideas. In addition to possible contaminants, your dog’s fur itself can easily clog up your filtration system. You can reduce this issue by keeping your pet’s hair on the shorter side and brush it often. You’ll also want to be especially vigilant about testing the chemical levels of your water – and this will be even more important if you have more than one dog who loves to spend time in the pool.
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