Dogs love an adventure and are often drawn to water (the murkier the pond, the more attractive it seems to be!)  Not all dogs can swim though, and even those that are able to swim can still get into trouble. Problems can occur when it comes to getting out of the water after they’ve been for a dip.  Some dogs may have arthritis, which can make clambering out difficult.  Some may just get stuck because the sides of the pond or lake are steep or slippery.  It could be that they suddenly tire, that there’s a strong current or they could just get stuck in the sand/mud.  Whatever the issue, it’s good to know how to help your dog, should they need it.

How to help a drowning pet

First of all, never risk your life for a drowning pet. Do not go into dangerous water (cold/icy water, fast running water, water with a strong current, any water where you don’t know the depth etc) to rescue your dog.

If you find your pet unconscious in water:

• Check the mucous membranes for a grey or bluish discolouration which would mean they are cyanosed and your pet has been deprived of oxygen
• Check for breathing
• If they are not breathing and you are able to do this; hold your pet upside down and gently shake them as this can encourage them to breathe on their own
• Alternatively put them onto their right hand side with their head lower than their body
• Locate the last ribs and push into the dent beside these in an upward motion, towards their head, to try and force out any weeds or water and encourage them to breathe
• Repeat this 4 or 5 times for up to a minute
• If they do not begin to come round or start breathing and there is no pulse, start rescue breaths and then, if appropriate, CPR.

Dogs can suffer from secondary drowning, as can humans.  So, even if your dog appears to make a full recovery but they were unconscious in the water, they do need to be seen by a vet.

Prevention:

Prevention is key to avoiding this situation happening in the first place.  Always be extra cautious when you are near water with your dog.  If they are likely to make a dash for it, make sure you put them on the lead until you are at a safe distance.

Dogs don’t understand about preserving their energy by treading water, so if they are in the water they will just keep swimming.  This means they will tire more quickly than a person in the same situation.

Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, you’ll still need to make sure they always wear a life jacket if you’re taking them out on a boat.  Not only will it help them to float if they fall in, it will also give people trying to save them something to grab onto.

Also remember that dogs are much heavier in water than on land and may struggle.  Therefore, please ensure you have the strength to get them out of the water, should they need help.

Salt water isn’t good for dogs to drink – and ponds can be contaminated too.  So always ensure you travel with fresh water, to avoid them drinking from somewhere they shouldn’t. Don’t let your dog swim in any ponds with dangerous blue-green algae as this is incredibly toxic to dogs and humans.

Hopefully, by following these simple steps, you’ll continue to have a fun (and safe!) time with your dog around water.

First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for veterinary advice. The author does not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies or for any mistreatment or misdiagnosis of any person or animal, however caused. It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid for Pets course to understand what to do in a medical emergency.