Swimming Lessons For Dogs

Not all dogs naturally take to the water. Some breeds such as Bulldogs, Dachshunds, and Basset Hounds need help propelling themselves through water.

A growing number of aquatic centers nationwide now give dog swimming lessons. Swimming, of course, helps arthritic dogs regain mobility, helps keep dogs in shape, and also loose weight. The facilities are designed with a dog's safety in mind, complete with slip resistant decking to wide pool steps for easy exit and entry. They do not even use eye-stinging chlorine, instead is a high-tech filtration system. The water is kept warm for puppies and older, arthritic dogs.

In northern California your dog will find a pool with jets at The Swimming Dog; outside Chicago the Carriage Hills Kennels opened a new indoor dog pool, and near Baltimore the Canine Fitness Center has two large dog pools.

Water Safety for Dogs

Someone told me that all dogs can swim. That is not true.

Here are a few tips on water safety:

Pets can drown in lakes and pools, just like people. Even if your pet seems to want to keep playing fetch in the water, at some point you will need to take a break.

Older dogs tire more quickly, even if they are excellent swimmers. When the dog becomes exhausted, swimming and keeping his head above water becomes more difficult.

Be on the lookout for stagnant pools of water. At certain times of the year, algae forms along the edges of stagnant or infrequently used bodies of water. Some forms of this algae, particularly blue-green algae, are very dangerous. Ingesting some of the algae can cause serious, rapid illness that can kill pets.

Do not allow your pet to go near stagnant water or algae, and make sure he does not drink from these water sources.

I hope these water safety tips help keep your dog safe this summer.

First Taste of Summer

The Pacific Northwest finally experienced sunshine and warm temperatures!

I decided to take the two dogs to Budd Inlet in Olympia, Washington, for some cooling off water play. Look at this beautiful scene with the Olympics in the background!


Ginger is the swimmer, while Ebony plays in the shallow water.




With coaxing and after becoming uncomfortably hot, Ebony will retrieve a stick if not thrown far. I really do not know if she thinks this is fun or if she is trying to please me?


Summertime and the living is easy!