Keeping Fido Cool and Healthy In The Pool!

Las Vegas Dock Diving Dogs! 

Here in Las Vegas it can get super hot for humans but how do you think our canine friends feel? Some people resort to shaving Fido even thinking this will keep him cool.  That may be OK for some dogs but depending on the breed it may not be a good idea.  Some breeds should not be shaved and their coat is what keeps them cool.  Shaving a dog with light skin can also make them prone to a sunburn.  Talk to your vet or groomer before deciding to remove your pets hair. 

Swimming is another great way to keep you and your mutt cool.  But once again be careful.  Don't just throw your dog in a pool or lake thinking they can swim.  This may disorientate the dog or scare them.  Then if you have to jump in to save them you may be at risk too.  Let your pooch become gradually familiar with the water.  You can also put a life jacket on them and you should always watch them just as you would watch a kid.  I have a lab mix and he is a great swimmer and loves the water.  I still make him wear a life jacket when we are at the lake.  My concern is that he will get distracted and keep swimming away from me.  This has never happened but better to be safe then sorry.  My other dog Daisy was terrified of the water when I got her.  I got her a kids pool and let her gradually ease her way into it.  She saw my other dog in it and suddenly became interested.  She now will follow him into the lake and is not scared of the water.  She will never be a water dog like Tigger but she gets in enough to have fun and cool off.  Also remember to rinse off your pet after they are in the pool or at the beach.  The chlorine or salt water can dry out there skin and irritate it.  Make sure they don't drink the pool or ocean water.  Both the chlorine and salt water can make them sick.  If you don't have access to a lake or pool buy a kids pool and let your dog have fun in that.  It is another way to have fun and stay cool.

For those dogs that are really athletic and love the water you can try out Las Vegas Dock Diving for Dogs!  Check out there website www.lasvegasdockdogs.com.  Looks like so much fun for Fido!