So, your dog drinks from the pool like it’s a five-star drinking fountain? Yeah, mine too. At first, it seems harmless—until you realize they’re gulping down chlorinated water like it’s some magical elixir. But here’s the deal: pool water isn’t just drinking water with a fancy name. It’s a cocktail of chlorine, algaecides, and whatever else has taken a swim (leaves, bugs, mystery floaters—you get it).
Before you panic, let’s talk about how to keep your pets safe around the pool while still letting them enjoy some great exercise. And don’t worry, I promise this guide will be packed with safety tips, practical solutions, and maybe even a few laughs.
Speaking of pool safety, if you’re looking for a cover on your pool to help discourage your dog from turning it into their personal water bowl, Designer Pool Covers KZN has you covered—literally! With over 10 years of experience, they provide high-quality automatic and manual covers that make pools safer for both pets and humans.
Does Your Dog Love or Hate Water? Know the Signs!
The “Why Are They Trying to Poison Themselves?” Section (Understanding the Risks)
A. The “Chemical Surprise” Factor
- Chlorine can be harmful in high doses. A small amount of pool water may not be a big deal, but dogs drinking pool water regularly? That’s a different story.
- Chlorine tablets and other chemicals used to chlorinate the swimming pool can cause chlorine poisoning in dogs.
- Pool’s chlorine levels fluctuate, and if the concentrations of chlorine are too high, it can irritate their mouth, throat, and stomach.
- Even when the chlorine level is safe for humans, pets are much smaller, making their exposure riskier.
- Exposure to chlorine over time may develop into skin irritations or stomach issues.
- Signs of chlorine poisoning in dogs include excessive drooling, nausea, and lethargy. If you notice these, contact a veterinarian immediately.
B. The “Germ Buffet” Concern
- Stagnant water in your swimming pool can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Dogs are natural swimmers, but their stomachs weren’t built to digest E. coli and Giardia. (Gross, right?)
- If your pup drinks pool water with alga, it could lead to stomach upset or infections.
- Bacteria-related issues can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, making your dog feel miserable for days.
- Some parasites found in contaminated water while swimming can cause long-term health concerns.
C. The “Dehydration Paradox”
- Saltwater pools seem safer, but drinking too much salt water leads to even more dehydration.
- A dog drinks too much of this, and you might be heading to the vet for IV fluids.
- Unlike humans, dogs don’t always recognize that drinking too much salt water makes them more thirsty, leading to a vicious cycle of dehydration.
- Over time, regular consumption of saltwater can affect kidney function and lead to long-term damage.
D. The “Oops, I Can’t Swim” Problem
- Many dogs love the water, but small breeds and puppies can inhale chlorinated water, causing difficulty breathing.
- Even the best swimmer can struggle if they get tired or disoriented.
- Without a life vest, a dog that loves to swim may overestimate its endurance, leading to exhaustion.
- Never leave a dog unattended near a swimming pool, as accidents happen quickly.
“Operation: Keep Them Out of the Pool Bowl” (Practical Solutions)
A. The “Fresh Water” Rule
- Always keep fresh water available at all times to quench their thirst.
- A drinking fountain or extra water bowl near the pool helps discourage them from drinking out of the pool.
- Ensure your dog has easy access to a hydration station near their play area.
B. Physical Barriers & Smart Solutions
- A cover on your pool from Designer Pool Covers KZN can act as an extra layer of protection.
- Install a pool fence to keep your pup away from the pool.
- Consider motion-activated sprinklers to startle them away from their pool water safe adventure.
- Keeping pets away from the pool when you’re not around is the best way to prevent accidents.
C. Training Your Dog: The “Leave It” Dance
- Use a strong “Leave it” command to prevent them from drinking too much.
- Reward them for choosing their water bowl over the pool.
- Start training early so that your dog’s first instinct is to look for clean water instead of chlorinated water.
D. Safe Hydration Alternatives
- Make pet-friendly ice treats to encourage them to cool off without resorting to drinking out of the pool.
- Offer pet-safe clean water alternatives like frozen watermelon and cucumber.
- Providing a variety of safe hydration options will discourage your dog from seeking out pool water.
E. Pool Chemical Management
- Regularly test the chlorine level in your pool to keep it balanced.
- Rinse your dog after swimming in the pool to remove the chlorine from their fur.
- Allow time for chemicals to dissolve before letting pets near the water.
- Keeping the chlorine level at appropriate levels makes the pool water safe for occasional accidental ingestion.
“Pet Pool Toys: A Fun and Safe Distraction”
- Providing engaging pool toys for dogs can redirect their attention from drinking pool water to playing safely.
- Floating dog toys, like rubber chew toys or fetch balls, keep their focus away from swallowing water.
- Some dogs enjoy shallow kiddie pools as an alternative water play area, reducing their risk of pool water consumption.
- Investing in dog-friendly splash pads offers a safer way for pets to cool off without chlorine exposure.
- Supervised pool play with interactive games strengthens the bond between owner and pet while ensuring safety.
“Uh Oh, Did They Drink It?” (Recognizing Symptoms and What to Do)
A. Signs They Drank Too Much
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Red eyes or skin irritation
- Disorientation
- In severe cases, difficulty breathing or collapse
B. What to Do
- Rinse their mouth with clean water.
- Keep them calm and away from the pool.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist.
C. When It’s an Emergency
- If your dog might have ingested too much water, and they struggle to breathe or collapse—get to a veterinarian ASAP.
- Vet bills aren’t fun, but having a pet insurance policy can help.
- Seeking professional advice from qualified professionals is always the safest bet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is it important to stop your dog from drinking pool water?
Pool water contains chemicals, including chlorine, which can cause stomach upset or worse if ingested in large amounts. The dangers of chlorine include irritation to your pet’s digestive system and potential toxicity if levels are too high. Always provide access to clean drinking water to keep them safe.
2. How can I keep my dog away from the pool when I’m not around?
The best way to keep your dog away from the pool is by using a sturdy pool cover, installing a fence, or training them to stay away. Never leave them unsupervised near water, as accidents can happen quickly.
3. What are some tips to keep my pet hydrated so they ignore the pool?
Make sure fresh water is available at all times in multiple spots around your home and yard. Dogs often drink pool water out of convenience, so placing bowls near their favorite spots can help.
4. What should I do if my dog drinks too much pool water?
Don’t panic if your dog drinks too much pool water—it happens! However, watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive drooling. In an emergency situation, contact your vet immediately.
5. Are there safer swimming options for dogs?
Yes! If your pup loves to splash around, consider providing a kiddie pool with shallow water and no chemicals. This way, they can enjoy water play safely without risks associated with chlorine.
Pool Season: Fun, Not Fear (Conclusion)
Prevention is the best way to keep your pet safe. With some training, proper hydration, and a cover on your pool, you can let your furry friend enjoy summer without the risk.
If you’re serious about pool safety, check out Designer Pool Covers KZN. Our pool covers not only keep your pets safe but also maintain the aesthetics of your swimming pool.
Want to know more? Contact them today and make your pool water safe for everyone!