Backyard swimming pools are a great source of fun, laughter and amusement for the whole family including pets. If you are a pet owner and have a swimming pool, this article contains some hints and tips on keeping your pets safe.
Many pets are attracted to swimming pools. Dogs love to retrieve interesting buoyant objects and cats like to sneak a quick drink whilst their owner is out of sight. The best thing you can do to ensure your pets stay safe around the pool is to supervise them and ensure that your pool is adequately fenced.
Following are some items you can incorporate into your pool environment to keep your pet and family even safer.
Secure Fencing
Whilst regulations govern most pool fencing requirements, it is a good idea to check your fencing is pet proof. When introducing a new pet, puppy or kitten to your backyard make sure they can not squeeze between any gaps or spaces. Also, check all pool chemicals are stored safely out of pet's reach and electrical leads are out of reach from a puppy that likes to chew.
Pool Covers
There are various types of pool netting products available from specialist outlets. Just remember nets only work when they are kept on the pool, so vigilant care must be given to replacing the cover after every pool use.
Ramps and Stairs
If you are building or installing a new pool, consider a set of stairs or ramp that will provide your pet with a non-slip easy exit. Pets, can be trained to go up a graduated set of steps. An untrained pet is more likely to go to the nearest edge and try claw their way out and their state of panic can quickly lead to exhaustion. So an introduction to a shallow area or exit point is a good idea for pets that are more prone to taking a dip. Even dogs that are accomplished swimmers can lose their ability when they panic. Always supervise your pet when they are near a swimming pool and regularly check fencing for potential access areas. 
Chlorine
If your pool water is regularly tested and carefully monitored a quick swim in the pool under supervision will be of little harm to your pet. We recommend hosing your pet after swimming to rid excess salt or chlorine from their coat. If your pet has any kind of skin condition or is susceptible to skin problems you should check with your vet first. Also it is a good idea to read the instructions on any parasite control products being used as not all products have water resistant properties.
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