Estimates have the number of dogs and cats in North America at 58,000,000 and 62,000,000, respectively, and it’s a painful truth that thousands of them are victims of accidental drownings annually. Due to the fact that many people do not report these drownings, there is no way to know exactly how many pets actually die this way. Although, 99 % of dogs can swim, we have a false sense of security when we see our dogs running and jumping in and out of the water at the lake or our back yard pool. A significant percentage of dogs and even some cats are only able to swim a little while before they become fatigued. With this in mind, these animals go into a panic state when they are unable to quickly find a way to get their paws on solid ground. This panic is what causes them to drown. But it is more than just a problem for pets, for loving pet parents will selflessly and without hesitation dive into a frozen lake or rapidly flowing river in an attempt to rescue their animal.
How can we prevent our pet from suffering this horrible fate? Here are a few valuable tips:
1. Do not make the assumption that your dog is able to swim.
2. Keep a close eye on your aging pet. They cannot swim as long or as far as they once did.
3. Do not throw your dog or cat in any type of water. They will panic from the initial shock.
4. Purchase a canine floatation device (CFD) or pet life jacket for your dog or cat. If they are going to be near water, put it on them. Often a pet may fall off a dock or out of a moving boat without our knowledge.
5. Solar blankets and pool covers look like solid surfaces to your pet. If your animals are around the pool, it is a good idea to remove them if possible to avoid them walking onto it.
6. Fix a pet safety gate to the entrance to the pool area.
7. Be certain that your canine and feline friends cannot easily access a neighboring pool.
8. Install a pool alarm for a pond or your pool.
9. Keep your pet away from rapidly flowing water.
10. Make sure your pet stays away from frozen lakes and rivers.
There is a ton of guilt that comes from having to watch your pet drown, and a person can never fully recover from having to go through that experience. I highly recommend that you go out and inspect your property for any water hazards. Make your home and any vacation residences drown proof immediately, whether it’s in the dead of winter or during the summer months. If your pet is going to be anywhere near water, make sure they are wearing a canine floatation device or pet life jacket.
Jake writes numerous articles on the dog life jacket and about the safety aspects of dog life jackets to keep your pet safe whilst near water.
