Ahoy, pet parents! Ever envisioned a sunny day where you’re lounging by the pool with a chilled lemonade while your furry friend makes waves in the water? Hilarious doggy paddles or feline paw-dabs at water make for a fun scene. But remember, even the most playful pet watersports, like any reality T.V. show, can come with its share of drama. Here’s how to keep those aquatic escapades pure fun and steer clear of the S.S. Disaster.
First, we must answer a crucial question: Is your beloved Fido a Michael Phelps or more of a Titanic in the water? Not all dogs are natural swimmers; most cats would rather defy gravity on a tree than paddle in a pool. Take it slow, let them feel the water, and consider investing in a pet life jacket. They’re handy and make for some seriously Instagrammable moments!
Don’t leave your pets unsupervised around water. Now that you’re prepared remember, you’re the lifeguard on duty, sans the whistle and the tanned muscles. Watch out for signs of distress. Is your fur baby making more noise than a boat motor? It may be time to swoop in and save the day!
But wait, there’s more to it. Swimming can be thirsty work, even for your pet. Yes, you heard that right! Pets can get dehydrated while playing around in the water, so ensure they have fresh water to sip on nearby. Just because they’re surrounded by water doesn’t mean they should drink it, especially when it’s chlorinated pool water.
Next on our list, pay attention to those cute little paws. They’re not just meant to give you adorable high-fives. No one likes the feeling of pruny paws, not even your pet! Water, particularly the chlorine in pools, can be tough on your pet’s sensitive paws. Please give them an excellent rinse after swimming and check for anything unusual.
Let’s remember the importance of good swimming pool etiquette. No, we’re not implying that your pet needs to understand the art of table manners. But teaching them to use a pet-friendly ramp for getting in and out of the pool can be a game-changer. It’s safer, easier, and quite frankly, your pet will look like a total pro!
Lastly, but most importantly, be mindful of water hazards. Keep your pets away from pool covers, ensure pool chemicals are safely tucked away, and protect your pet from unfriendly sea creatures if you’re at the beach. Jellyfish might look like floating squeaky toys, but trust us, they’re not!
There you go, a comprehensive guide to ensuring your pet’s water escapades are more Baywatch than Jaws. Remember these tips, and your pet will be riding the wave of fun in no time. Remember, the only type of drama we’re after is the one that gets us many likes on Instagram. Happy swimming, folks!
