[Animals] How to know if your dog can swim in the sea: these are the secrets to taking care of your pet in the water

[FNX Magokiler]

Taking pets to the beaches is one of the activities that has gained momentum among pet owners in recent years. Although temperatures in spring, summer and autumn seem ideal for dogs to enter the sea, it is important to take some precautions to safeguard their integrity.

Dr. Rebecca Greenstein of Pet People Panel and Dr. Paige Adams of the Etowah Veterinary Hospital, in Georgia, warned in an interview for the pet blog Rover that the temperature of the lakes or rivers where the animals will be is very important. to prevent disease.

Greenstein shared that there are different variables to consider if the water temperature is ideal for a canine, since it depends on the thermal sensation, the breed of the animal and the environmental conditions, however, in most cases dogs are guided by their own instincts.

Do dogs know how to swim?

Paige Adams explained that most pets are aware of the capabilities of their own bodies, which is why it is important to take into consideration the animal's own judgment, as it will not do something that it considers unsafe for it.

 

 

“The breed of dog makes a big difference in its tolerance to climate, both on land and in water,” explained the Georgia veterinarian. Adams shared that dogs that were historically used for work, sport or herding purposes have greater tolerance to certain climates and could swim in the sea without problems even in the middle of winter.

The American Kennel Club (AKC), an organization specializing in pedigree dogs, explained on its website that the ideal water temperature for a canine to swim is at least 37 degrees Celsius. The group shared that if the sea is cold enough for a person, it is very likely that their dog feels the same way.

Dr. Rebecca Greenstein warned that hypothermia is a condition to which dogs are exposed when they spend a long time in cold water and if they present symptoms such as lethargy, stiff muscles, pale or gray gums, it is urgent to take them to a space closed.

“Take him inside immediately and start warming him up slowly by rubbing his paws while you call your vet,” she explained.

How long can you stay in the water?

Greenstein and Adams explained that duration is also an important factor in these activities, since if the dog has been in the water for a short time or it was only a dip of a few seconds, it is unlikely that it will develop health problems.

As the canine spends more time in the sea or river, the animal's fur will absorb more water and this could cause its body temperature to drop alarmingly.

 

https://www.infobae.com/mascotas/2023/12/05/como-saber-si-tu-perro-puede-nadar-en-el-mar-estos-son-los-secretos-para-cuidar-a-tu-mascota-en-el-agua/