Dogs and swimming pools: dangers and solutions

Seeing you and your family having fun in the water is bound to make your dog want to join in, especially in hot weather! Although it's a great opportunity for him to cool off and get some exercise, it's essential to be aware of the risks and take certain precautions.

Dangers to be aware of when your dog swims in the pool

Risk of poisoning : It is vital to distinguish between free swimming in a river or lake and swimming in a pool. Swimming pool water is treated, and your dog must be prevented from ingesting it to avoid poisoning. Products such as chlorine or salt can be dangerous, causing digestive problems or excess salt in your pet's body (hyponatremia).

Skin irritations and respiratory problems : The treatments used, particularly chlorine, can also harm dogs' delicate skin and respiratory systems. If your dog has skin problems or particular sensitivities, it's best to avoid bathing him.

Risk of drowning : Every year, many dogs drown in private swimming pools, often due to their lack of experience, inability to swim or exhaustion after trying to get out of the water. Some accidentally fall into the pool while their owners are away, while others drown while playing under their owners' supervision. As with children, it is essential to be particularly vigilant and to put in place appropriate safety devices.

How can you minimise the risks to your pet?

To prevent your dog from drinking the pool water, remember to moisturise before swimming and leave a bowl of water outside. Avoid chlorine-based products, and be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully. rinse your dog thoroughly with clean water after each swimming session.

To prevent the risk of drowning, make your pool safe and teach your dog to swim from an early age. Install an access ramp, also known as a rescue ramp, so he can get out of the water easily, and teach him how to use it! Protect your pool with a cover, protective structure or barrier, install an alarm to warn you if there's a problem, and fit your dog with a safety collar to warn you if he falls. Stay alert when your pet is playing near water.

In very hot weather, as with humans, there is a risk of heatstroke. It's better to get your dog wet and gradually lower him into the water than to let him dive in after long exposure to the sun. What's more, if your dog is old or ill, be sure to dry him off after swimming to limit the risk of hypothermia.

Finally, education is essential: teach your dog to obey you and to enter the water only on your command, which will bring you greater peace of mind. Don't forget that, just like humans, some dogs don't enjoy swimming or feel uncomfortable in the water. It is no need to force themForcing them into the water would only increase their fear and create unnecessary risks!

Dangers for your pool

Hygiene issues : Letting your dog play in the pool means agreeing to swim in less healthy water! The dirt, parasites and dust that your dog brings with him can affect the cleanliness of the water.

Impact on water quality : If your dog sheds, especially if it's a long one, this can lead to a build-up of unsightly hair in the water, clogged pool filtersThis will make the renewal of water in the pool less efficient. In addition, too many impurities can lead to overproduction of chloramine (from the reaction between chlorine and organic matter), which can be harmful to bathers.

Dangers for the liner : By playing or getting out of the water, your dog could cause considerable damage to your pool, especially if it has a liner or reinforced membrane, or scratch the surface of your hull with its claws. So it's best to opt for a concrete or tiled pool.

How can you protect your pool and the quality of its water?

Remember to take your dog to the groomer regularly, give him a shower and brush him before each swim in your pool to limit the presence of impurities and hair that could clog your water and filters. Scrupulously observe the frequency ofmaintenance and filters. There are also disposable pre-filters to cover the skimmers and prevent them from becoming blocked too quickly.

To prevent damage to your liner, installing an access ramp reduces the risks when getting out of the water, but it's best to choose a sturdy pool that's not afraid of being scratched.

In short, your pet should only swim in the pool occasionally! Remember to allow your dog to enjoy time out in nature (lakes, ponds, etc.) and to give priority to playing by the water rather than in it. This way, your dog can enjoy your company without taking any risks.