Even with the summer winding down, there are still some warm days to be had. It’s a great time to take dogs swimming. But, there are a few things we at Progressive Animal Wellness like to remind our clients and friends.
Lurking in the Water
Be aware of the risks of leptospirosis, which can grow in stagnant and slow moving water, and Giardia, a disease caused by contaminated water. It you have a water loving dog, vaccinate for lepto and know the signs of both diseases.
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Not All Dogs Can Swim
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Sure, the “Doggy Paddle” got its name from the way a dog looks when swimming, but not all dogs can swim. In fact, some don’t even like the water. If you’ve never taken your dog swimming, start with some baby steps. Wade in. Then toss an object out just a couple of feet from the shore. Help your dog build some confidence.
That’s Far Enough
Most dogs will chase any thrown object. Don’t throw a ball or other toy too far out in the water. Your dog will keep swimming after it and might not be able to make it back to shore. Worse, they may lose sight of the object and just keep swimming. Shorter distance fetches are just as much fun for your pooch and give him a chance to catch his breath between throws.
Float It or Forget It
If the object you’re throwing out into the water for your dog sinks, get rid of it and find something that floats. Diving dogs can get confused and breathe in water.
Gate That Pool
If you have a pool, keep it fenced and gated, and lock the gate. Never let a dog swim unattended. Also, pool covers are death traps for dogs and the people who dive in to save them.
Take Care After Swimming
Check dogs’ footpads after swimming. They can cut them on rocks, shells, or even hidden pieces of broken glass as they scramble out of lakes, rivers, and the ocean. Also be sure to clean dog’s ears after swimming – ask your vet for something that has a safe drying agent and an anti-fungal agent. Thoroughly dry your dog to prevent hotspots.
Where’s the Wag?
If a dog who’s been swimming develops a limp, non-wagging, and possibly painful tail, it could be a condition called “Limber Tail,” also known as “swimmer’s tail” or “cold tail.” We believe it is caused by inflammation and/or trauma to the muscles and nerve fibers that control the tail. Typically, swimmer's tail will resolve on its own with rest and possibly some pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. However, it can recur when the dog repeats the activity that caused it. The best medicine is rest and relaxation, and easing back into play time.
Finally, consider learning pet first aid and CPR – if you spend a lot of time around animals, you never know when you might need these skills. Learn more at www.pettech.net.
About the Author
Corey Shagensky, DVM, is Dr. Corey Shagensky is the founder and owner of Progressive Animal Wellness (PAW) in Avon. He has been practicing veterinary medicine since earning his degree from Cornell University in 2004. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association, the Avon Chambers of Commerce, and the Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunities. His areas of particular professional interest include dermatology, endocrinology, oral health, and preventive medicine. An avid road bicyclist and gardener, Dr. Shagensky also enjoys cooking, baking, sailing, playing guitar, and trying to read as many classic books/novels as he can. He lives in West Hartford with his wife, Jen, their two children, and Gertie, a mix he rescued from the SPCA while at Cornell. Connect with PAW on Facebook and Twitter, too.
