Pets in the pool: what are the dangers and necessary precautions?

Living with pets is part of the routine of many families, and leisure spaces like the pool end up sparking curiosity and excitement in dogs — and in some cases, even in cats. Seeing the animal refreshing itself may seem like an innocent and even fun scene, especially on warmer days.

However, the relationship between pets in the pool requires attention and information. Not every animal knows how to swim; frequent contact with chemical products can cause health problems, and the projects, if not adapted, can pose real risks. Therefore, understanding the necessary care is essential to ensure that the experience is safe, comfortable, and positive for both the pet and the owners.

Does every pet know how to swim?

There is a common belief that dogs know how to swim by instinct, but this is not entirely true. Some breeds have an easier time, like Labradors and Golden Retrievers, while others — especially brachycephalic ones like Pugs and Bulldogs — may have breathing difficulties and lower buoyancy.

Other factors like age, physical condition, and even previous experiences directly influence the animal's relationship with water. Cats, for their part, generally do not like pools and may panic if they accidentally fall in. Therefore, one should never assume that the pet is safe just because it is in the water. Constant supervision is essential, as is gradual introduction to the projects, always respecting the animal's limits.

Risks of chlorine and treated water

Another important point when discussing pets in the pool is the quality of the water. Chlorine and other chemicals used for treatment can cause irritations on the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes of animals, especially when exposure is frequent. Pets with dermatitis, allergies, or open wounds are even more sensitive.

Moreover, the ingestion of pool water — something common when the animal is playing — can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea. To reduce these risks, it is ideal to maintain the chemical balance of the water, offer clean and fresh water outside the pool to prevent the pet from drinking treated water, and after use, rinse the animal with running water to remove chemical residues from its fur and skin.

Safety: access, exit, and supervision

The pool should also be considered from the safety perspective of the pet. One of the biggest risks is that the animal can get into the water but cannot get out. Very high edges, inadequate stairs, or absence of ramps can lead to extreme exhaustion and even drowning. The ideal is to install ramps or steps designed for pets, with a non-slip surface, facilitating an autonomous exit.

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Safety fences around the pool are also highly recommended, especially in homes with curious animals or puppies. Regardless of the structure, human supervision is fundamental: never leave the pet alone in the pool area, even if it already has frequent contact with water.

Care after using the pool

The care does not end when the pet comes out of the water. Drying the animal well, especially the ears and skin folds, helps prevent otitis, fungi, and infections. In dogs with droopy ears, this care should be doubled. Brushing after the bath is also important to avoid tangles and remove chemical residues that may have been trapped in the fur.

Observing the pet's behavior in the following hours is another essential point: signs like excessive scratching, redness in the eyes, apathy, or gastrointestinal changes indicate that something may not have done well. In these cases, the guidance of a veterinarian is always the best path.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.