Water Safety for Dogs

Published September 30, 2008 | By Otto Mattick

If you love to take your dog with you everywhere you go, then you may want to purchase a dog life jacket. People that take their dog to the beach or out boating should seriously consider buying him or her a dog life jacket. If you are like me, your dogs are just as important to you as your children. You would never let your small child near deep water without a life jacket on, and then the same should be said for your dog wearing a life jacket too.

A dog life jacket is a waterproof coat made especially for dogs that will allow him to easily move around enough to swim or partake in any number of other fun water activities that you have planned for the day. Another advantage to having a dog life jacket is the handle made on the back side which will allow you to pull him out of the water quickly if needed.

A life jacket for your dog could very well save his or her life, and I would recommend that all dogs wear one when at the beach, lake or near deep water. Dogs can be very curious and can create distractions when they are boating or even on a pier or dock. They can be distracted by birds, other boats, surfers and any number of things that can cause them to accidently fall off the boat or pier. If he or she is wearing a life jacket you will have the peace of knowing that he will be able to remain afloat until you can rescue him or he can swim back to the boat or shore.

Dogs also have a tendency to get excited and overdo it when they are playing in the water. Unfortunately, dogs have been known to drown when playing in water with a toy, ball or stick. If they are preoccupied with the game and playing with you, they can end up getting into trouble because they get too tired. If that happens a strong current can take the life of your dog.

That is why a dog life jacket is very important, it is not dumb to want to keep your dog alive by having them wear one, because it will greatly increase their chances of survival if they are in danger due to deep water or strong currents. You can get a good dog life jacket by searching the internet for such items or you can even order one special from your local pet store if they do not already carry them in stock. Dog life jackets are very important to have for your dog during any outing around water and you can purchase them in any size needed to fit your dog.