Finley here!
Get your floaties on, everybody, because we’re going to talk about swimming safety! You may be scratching your head at this, given how most dogs are great swimmers, but that is what we call a false sense of security. Sadly, hundreds of my fellow water-loving dogs drown each year in their owners’ pools or ponds. Puppies tend to be the most vulnerable, but adult dogs are also at risk. Here are some of my expert tips on keeping the pups out there safe this summer!
Prevention
The trouble begins with falling in, because pools and ponds can be hard or impossible to get out of without help. While most dogs will be fine to swim for a while, we’re not meant for endurance swimming, trust me! The best way to avoid a dangerous situation is to keep a close eye on your dog around water. If you own or are going to be around a pool, show your dog where the steps are. Whether or not they will actually be allowed to swim in the pool, they should be shown in case they decide to swim anyway. The way to do this is by getting in the pool and guiding him several times to the pool steps. This easy precaution could save your dog’s life!
Rescuing
We’re about to get real here. I know my stuff, so listen up!
Should your dog get into trouble in the water, here are some things you can do to rescue him. Get them out of the water as quickly as you can. Watch for breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness and shock. Clear his airway as soon as possible by making sure there is no debris in his mouth that would obstruct breathing. For a puppy, he can be turned upside down and allow the water to drain from his nose and mouth. For a larger dog, turn him on his side with his head in a lower position than his body allowing the lungs to drain. If his heart is beating perform artificial respiration at once. His lower jaw must be raised. Keep the mouth closed by firmly pressing on both jaws. Holding his mouth firmly, blow on the nostrils. Process must be repeated until the dog’s chest is moving indicating that the dog is breathing on its own.
If the dog’s heart is not beating, cardiopulmonary resuscitation must be performed. The dog must be turned on its back. Using clasped hands on either side of the dog’s chest, apply moderate pressure by compressing the palms on the chest for a count of two and release the pressure at the count of one. This procedure must be repeated 60 to 90 times per minute. This procedure must be alternated with the resuscitation procedure. Basically the ratio of chest compression and breath of air on the dog’s nostrils is 5 is to 1. If the heart starts beating but the dog is still not breathing artificial respiration must be administered once again. CPR and artificial respiration must be continued until the dog is capable of breathing on its own. Once he is breathing on his own, get him to a vet as quickly as possible. Most likely, your vet will want to keep your dog overnight for observation and further care.
Again, the best way to keep your dog safe, is to keep a watchful eye on him; especially if he’s a puppy. Just like you would watch your human puppies around water, dogs should be watched just as closely. Also, if you plan to be around a lake or ocean, a life-vest for your dog could make all the difference.
Have fun, and be safe!
Finley Canine Quality Control Officer Cascade Kennels, Inc.
Information for this article was taken from Sarah’s Dogs. http://www.sarahsdogs.com/
