As the days grow
longer and the temperature moderates, we will be spending greater amounts of
time outdoors with our dogs. A little common sense and awareness of some of
the season's hazards will make your outdoor time pleasurable and safe.
Pool Safety for Pooches
Now that summer is here, your swimming pool will be a popular place.
Although most dogs instinctively know how to swim, swimming pools (or
steeply banked ponds and lakes) can be drowning hazards if a swimming dog
can't get out and becomes exhausted. Here's how to avoid tragedy:
If You Own A Pool
Securely fence in the pool area. Never let your dog inside the fenced area
unsupervised. Swim with your dog and show him where the shallow-end steps
are and how to use them. (Most dogs cannot climb out of pools directly from
the edge or climb up a ladder.)
If You Don't Own A Pool
Keep your dog leashed during walks and confined to your property at all
other times. Dogs running loose are swimming-pool accidents waiting to
happen.
If An Accident Occurs
Clear the dog's throat of obstructions if he/she is not breathing. Cup both
hands over the dog's closed mouth and breathe into its nostrils (30 to 40
breaths per minute).
Continue this mouth to mouth technique while transporting the dog to the
nearest veterinarian for emergency treatment.
