07/24/2026
Happy Friday!! It’s going to be a hot beautiful weekend so we wanted to share a few helpful tips on water safety for pets! 🐾
Summer means more time at the beach, lake, or pool, but water can pose risks for our furry
friends.
Here are a few simple ways to help keep your pet safe:
💧 Always supervise your pet around water. Even strong swimmers can become tired or get into trouble.
🛟Use a properly fitted life jacket. This is especially important when boating, paddle boarding, or swimming in deep or moving water.
🐕Remove collars and leashes before swimming. They can get caught on docks,
branches, rocks, or pool ladders, making it difficult for your pet to get free. If your pet needs identification, consider a breakaway collar when appropriate and keep them supervised.
🌊Be aware of currents and waves. Rivers, oceans, and even some lakes can have strong currents that are difficult for pets to escape.
🚫Avoid blue-green algae. Water that looks like green paint, pea soup, or has thick surface scum may contain harmful algae that can be life-threatening if swallowed. When in doubt, keep your pet out of the water.
💦 Bring fresh drinking water. Drinking salt water, pool water, or stagnant lake water can cause stomach upset and, in some cases, serious illness.
🚿Rinse and dry your pet after swimming. Rinse away chlorine, salt, sand, and algae, then dry the coat and ears well. Moisture trapped in the skin or ears can lead to hot spots or ear infections.
☀️ Watch for signs of overheating. Swimming can be tiring, especially on hot days. Take frequent breaks, provide shade, and offer fresh water.
🚨Seek veterinary care right away if your pet shows signs of trouble, including:
• Difficulty breathing or persistent coughing after swimming
• Excessive tiredness or weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Trouble walking or acting disoriented
• Red, irritated skin or painful ears
• Trembling or collapse
A little preparation can make every water adventure safer and more enjoyable for everyone!
🐾❤️