No bones about it, summer in Hampton Roads can get hot! When the temperature reaches the eighties and nineties, thoughts drift to cool places. Your pets, too, require relief from the heat, and some may want to join you in the backyard pool, if you don’t already have a special pool suited for your four-footed family. A sunny day spent splashing in the water is a great way to stay cool, but make sure your pets play safely.
Can They Swim?
Whether you have a family-size pool at home or are using a special pet pool for your dog, it’s important that your pets are able to swim. Every pet is different and swimming isn’t a natural instinct for every animal. You may want to look into swim training for your dog to strengthen their skills in the water, no matter how deep.
Give your pets their own pool space. Northstates MyPet pools are perfect for summer days of splashing, and they’re great for outdoor pet baths, too!
Supervise The Fun
Never leave your pet unattended, even with a small pet-sized pool. Like people, dogs are at risk for drowning if they are inexperienced in water. Treated pool water is also dangerous for pets to drink, so keep an eye on them if they see the pool as one giant water bowl!
Play fetch in the water with toys that float! The KONG Wet Wubba and Chuckit Rugged Flyer are easy to see and grip in the pool.
Don’t Force It
Some dogs take to water more easily than others. If your pet veers away from the pool when you try to lead it, don’t force the issue. Let your dogs come to the water when they are ready. If they need time, introduce them to the water slowly. Hold smaller dogs and get them used to being in the water. With larger dogs, invite them into a pet pool with a shallow level of water for splashing, then gradually fill it higher to suit their comfort.
Outward Hound Floatiez toys come in a variety of fun, sea-inspired shapes for your pet to play with in water. Keep one or two in the pool to help your pet’s comfort.
For more tips on keeping your pets cool during the lazy days of summer, Care-A-Lot Pet Supply is here to help. Connect with our online customer support with your questions, or stop by any of our four locations in Hampton Roads and Moyock for the coolest pool and beach toys.