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.

What can we do to prevent our pets from becoming a drowning victim? These are some worthy suggestions:

1. Never take for granted that your dog knows how to swim.

2. Keep a close eye on your dog especially if he or she is older. They cannot swim quite as long or as far as they were once able to.

3. Never throw a dog or cat in water. This will cause them to panic from the surprise.

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. Check to ensure that your pet does not have an entry into your neighbor’s pool area.

8. A pool alarm is a good idea for your pool or pond.

9. Keep your pet away from rapidly flowing water.

10. Do not allow your pet to go near frozen lakes & rivers.

Seeing your pet drown and the awful guilt that is associated with it can be overwhelming and very difficult or impossible to recover from. I strongly encourage you to have a look around your property for obvious water hazards. Whether it is summer or winter, you need to drown proof your home as well as your vacation property NOW. 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 articles on the small dog life jacket and about the importance of a dogs life jacket when around water.

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Filed under: Dog Training

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