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Water-lovers rejoice!

Here in Singapore, we have access to fun-filled, safe and well-maintained swimming pools for your dog to live her best life.

Swimming is a great way for your pooch to exercise as well as strengthen their muscles. Senior dogs, especially, may benefit from swimming to relieve muscle pain or symptoms of arthritis.

If a day by the pool with your pup sounds like something you’d love, read on for our quick tips for taking your dog for a swim!

1. Check out the facilities

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Everyone agrees that safety is paramount.

There are a few things you can look out for at a pet swimming pool to discern whether it would be a good fit for your pet.

It may be difficult for your dog to jump straight into the pool or to use certain types of steps and ladders. Assess whether your dog would be able to enter and exit the pool comfortably.

Wide steps, or even a bench-entry or a low-gradient ramp leading into the water, are all great choices.

You may also want to inquire whether you would be allowed in the pool with your pup! Your presence may be more comfortable to a nervous dog learning to swim. In general, most pools in Singapore allow—and even encourage—owners to be with their dogs in the water.

2. Be Mindful of Nervous Swimmers

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Dogs, like many other animals, have the innate ability to swim. Even if your pup is not an avid swimmer, he will instinctively doggy-paddle when introduced to water.

Still, your dog may be fearful of the water if it’s his first time. If your dog is new to water or is not a confident swimmer, initially introducing him to shallow depths of water is a good idea. Consider buying or renting a doggy life-jacket for extra safety.

Encouraging your dog is just as important! Some pools in Singapore have a therapist on duty to provide your dog with support.

Your dog should never be forced into water. Leave him to decide whether he’d like to explore the water, or coax him gently into the pool—if that doesn’t work, trying again another day may be a better idea.

3. Keep an eye on their skin

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Pools in Singapore include both of those with chlorine and chlorine-free water. Both varieties are maintained professionally to be perfectly safe for you and your pet.

Give your pet a quick rinse after each pool session, dabbing their ears for excess water as well. If you’re trying out a new swimming pool, monitor your dog after a day spent in the water for any skin irritation or sensitivity to it.

Swimming with your dog is a fantastic and fun way to strengthen your bond with your pet, while staying fit! With the right precautions, days in the swimming pool may just be your new favourite way to spend time with your pup.