Pool Pet Safety Guidelines To Keep Your Furbaby Safer

Think of pets like a child. They should never play in a swimming pool without adult supervision. Even if you know your pet knows how to swim, the temperature of the water, the smell of chlorine or anything else could distract them. Be ready to jump in to help them if they need it. This is especially true with new, younger and elderly pets. Until you see exactly how well your pet does in the pool, swim with them. As they adapt and you see they're doing well on their own, sit by the pool and watch them play.

Small dogs and cats might struggle with this one if your steps are steep. If this is the case, sit a weighted block on the top step for them to swim to and get out. You can also install a pet safety ladder for them to climb out easily. Not only should there be a safe way for your pets to exit the pool, but make sure they know where it's at. Work with them to train them on the right place to exit. If you see them getting tired, help them out.

Every residential pool in Honolulu must have a fence or pool cover. In fact, the law requires this to be a part of the planning process before you're even issued a permit. However, a fence is much better for pool pet safety. A pool cover can give way, trapping pets. A fence keeps them out completely. However, you can use both for even more protection. Ensure your fence is high enough that your pet can't jump it. Also, keep fence slats close together to prevent them from slipping in-between. For cats, consider a vinyl fence, which is much harder to climb than wood.

Pets are smart and determined. If they work hard enough, they just might get past your fence. So, install a pool alarm. It'll go off if anything moves around your pool or goes through the fence. Ideally, keep your pet inside your home or in a separate fenced area to prevent them from getting near your pool when you're not at home.

As you already know, your pool contains chemicals. These help keep your pool safer and cleaner. When it comes to pool pet safety, they can also be dangerous. In most cases, the chemicals are so diluted that it's still safe for your pets to play in the pool. However, some pets, especially cats, have very sensitive skin. Start with very short swim sessions, such as 5-10 minutes. Watch for any reactions. If you notice anything, go to your vet. Also, try to make sure your pet doesn't drink the water. Even when people ingest too much pool water, they can get sick. Provide fresh drinking water near the pool instead.

Just like with people, it's a good idea to rinse off after swimming in the pool. This helps wash away chemicals and freshen the fur. Keep a hose nearby or install a small shower by the pool to rinse off your pets after pool playtime is over. You can even use pet shampoo if you have a drain to further freshen them and soothe their skin. Have a towel to dry them before heading back into the house. After all, no one wants the whole wet pet smell in the house.

Finally, keep your pool clean. Bacteria, algae and debris can be dangerous to both you and your pets. An easy pool pet safety guideline is to keep your pool safe and clean. Ensure the chemistry is balanced at all times and your pool will be safer for everyone to use.