Given that many dogs enjoy swimming in swimming pools during the “dog days of summer,” it is important to know if pool water can make a dog ill. Here’s the thing: while most dogs enjoy splashing around in the pool, some may eventually decide to drink some of the water, so it’s crucial to know whether or not this is safe.
Owners of swimming pools and dogs should think about whether pool water can make a dog sick. When dogs are having fun splashing around in the pool, they will eventually become thirsty and will naturally drink some poop water, but is that okay? Ivana discusses crucial factors to take into account for a dog’s safety around swimming pools.
Can Dogs Swim in Chlorine Pools? What About Saltwater Pools?
As long as the chemicals are balanced, dogs can swim safely in both chlorine and saltwater pools. Of course, it’s crucial to ensure that your dog can swim. Regardless of how well they can swim, always keep an eye on your dog.
Pool water may also cause your dog’s skin and coat to become dry. By giving your dog a rinse or bath after swimming, you can stop this. Avoid bathing your dog right before swimming because it removes the natural protective oils from their skin and can irritate their skin more from the pool water. Invest in your dog’s own doggie pool or sprinkler if you don’t have access to a dog-friendly pool but still want to provide them with a refreshing place to swim.
What to Do If Your Dog Drank Pool Water
If your dog accidentally drinks a small amount of pool water, don’t freak out. Just stop it, and make sure there is fresh water available nearby. Keep an eye out for any symptoms of illness in your dog, and if you’re unsure, call your veterinarian.
If your dog consumes a significant amount of pool water, it is best to seek advice from your veterinarian. They might advise you to keep an eye on your dog to see if any problems arise. Alternatively, they might invite you in for a test. Even if it means going to the emergency vet, you should take your dog to the closest open vet if they seem extremely lethargic or sick after swimming.
Find food that fits your pet’s needs
Good luck keeping a water-loving dog out of a pool if you own one. You might be concerned about how safe your pool is for your dog, particularly if they enjoy sneaking drinks on hot days. Continue reading for information on salt water pools and dogs, including whether or not dogs can drink pool water and whether or not chlorine will harm them.
Your dog will inevitably ingest some water while swimming and playing in the pool. If your pool is properly maintained, the chlorine levels should be low enough that your dog won’t get hurt if they occasionally swallow a small amount of water. When a dog decides that the pool is a giant drinking bowl, problems arise.
If your pup starts lapping up chlorine pool water to quench their thirst, it can irritate their gastrointestinal tract and cause stomach discomfort and vomiting, as well as esophageal irritation and erosion, says The Spruce Pets. While this sounds bad, its not as dangerous as what might happen if your dog were to swallow improperly treated water thats loaded with algae, bacteria, parasites and other illness-inducing microorganisms.
Keep plenty of fresh water nearby for your dog, and if you see them drinking from the pool, tell them to stop. Keep your dog away from the pool entirely if you chemically shock it until all the chemical levels are back to normal.
FAQ
Can pool water upset a dog’s stomach?
When a dog decides that the pool is a giant drinking bowl, problems arise. According to The Spruce Pets, if your dog begins drinking chlorine pool water to quench their thirst, it can irritate their digestive system and cause stomach pain, vomiting, as well as esophageal irritation and erosion.
Can pool water be bad for dogs?
Even though normal levels of chlorine are safe for pets, the pool should never be their only water source. When additional chemicals like algaecide are being used as well as right after “shock” application, pets shouldn’t be allowed to drink from swimming pools.