River and Lake Safety

Life Jacket:  If your dog is new to swimming, a life jacket is an excellent idea.  This can provide buoyancy while your dog learns to swim well.  Life jackets are also suitable for dogs that spend much of the day in the water.  The added buoyancy will keep them from getting over-tired and getting into trouble.  For dogs that swim in rivers, a life jacket is a must.  Dangerous or rapid currents can sweep them away unexpectedly.

Vaccines:  Make certain all of your dog’s routine vaccines are current.  Consider vaccinating Leptospirosis every six months for dogs that spend much time in the water.  Leptospirosis is a bacterial spirochete found in contaminated water that can cause severe illness and even death.  The disease can be carried in wildlife and rodent population.

Beware of Stagnant Water: Slow-flowing lake and river water can become stagnant, especially in late summer.  This may allow for the growth of amoeba, which, if ingested, can cause brain disease.

Watch for Blue Green Algae: Blue-green algae blooms can grow during hot weather.  Ingestion of this algae can be toxic and even fatal.

Snakes and Leaches: Watch for water moccasins and other poisonous water snakes.  They can be found just about anywhere. Make certain your dog is not nosing around holes in riverbanks or lakeshores. If your dog gets bitten, seek veterinary care immediately.  Leaches can be found in still water and sluggish streams.  They are not a source of disease transmission.  If you find a leach on your dog, look for others since leaches tend to be found in groups.  To remove a leach, slide a flat object between the leach’s mouthparts, grip the middle of the body and pull.  Clean the wound and treat it with an antibiotic ointment like a scratch.

Fresh Water:  Bring fresh water from home for your dog to drink.  River or lake water may contain bacteria or Giardia that can cause gastrointestinal upset.

First Aid Kit:  You never know when an accident will happen.  Always travel with a pet first aid kit.

Dry Ears and Fur:  Wet ears and skin invite irritation and infection.  When your dog is done swimming for the day, dry him off well.  If fresh water is available, raise him off well before drying.  Use an ear cleaner to rinse his ears at the end of the day to help prevent ear infections.

Brush Out:  Once the hair coat is dry, brush out your pet’s hair coat well, checking for ticks, cuts, and other debris.

Hot and Cold:  Prolonged time in the sun and water can exhaust a dog to the point of heat stroke.  Many dogs do not know when to stop and rest on their own.  Make sure your dog takes appropriate rest breaks in the shade.  In the spring and fall, the water can be cold enough for overactive dogs to become tired and hypothermic.