Keeping safe around water

IT’S important to be careful around any body of water – canals, rivers, reservoirs and the sea. Here are some handy tips from the PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals) that can help keep your dog safe:

• The water in canals is often stagnant, which can be a health hazard for your dog. There are also often hazards lurking under the water, like rubbish and debris.

• While reservoirs look like tempting places to swim, they’re actually full of hidden dangers. There are strong currents in the water and there are often hidden objects under the surface.

Reservoirs are also usually very deep so the water is really cold, even on a hot day. It can send your dog’s body into shock, causing them to gasp and swallow water if they dive straight in.

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Any fast-flowing water is a danger for your dog. Currents can cause them to quickly get into trouble and struggle to reach the shore. Flood water is especially dangerous as it’s often packed with debris which can injure your dog.

• Big, crashing waves and strong currents put your dog in danger. Don’t let them into the sea when it’s rough, stormy or when there are warnings against swimming.

There are some diseases and poisons that can affect your dog if they’ve been in the water.

• This is an infection spread through rat wee and contaminated water. There’s a vaccination to protect your dog against leptospirosis – keep on top of your dog’s boosters, especially if they’re a keen swimmer. You can also reduce the risk by avoiding stagnant water and canals.

• This algae grows in stagnant water and looks like a blue-green sheen on the surface. It’s very toxic to dogs and just taking in a small amount can make them seriously ill. Don’t let them swim or drink from anywhere you think might have blue-green algae. If you’re worried they might have come into contact with the algae, don’t let them lick their fur and contact your vet right away.

If your dog’s been for a swim, it’s a good idea to give them a good wash which will clear their fur of anything they might have picked up in the water.