Essential pool tips for dog owners
Your pool is a fantastic place for both you and your dog to relax and cool off in the summer. However, sharing your pool with your pet has unique impacts on water quality and pool maintenance. But is it okay for a dog to swim in the pool? Read on to learn why regular water testing and some simple preventative measures are essential to keeping both your furry friend and pool safe and healthy.
The Impact of Dogs on Pool and Spa Water Quality
A single dog in your pool is equivalent to having three or more people swimming at once, as they introduce more contaminants into the water than humans. When dogs swim, they affect the pool’s pH levels, requiring more chlorine to maintain sanitisation. Fur, oils, and dirt can all lead to imbalances, and dogs also bring particles like dander, dirt, and even small traces of faecal matter. This can lead to the spread of Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs), including E. coli, Giardia, Hepatitis A, and Cryptosporidium.
How Dog Hair and Oils Affect Pool Filtration
Dog hair, especially from long or double-coated breeds, can shed into the water, entering and clogging pool filters, skimmers, and pumps. Clogged filters not only reduce the efficiency of the pool’s filtration system but also place additional strain on the pump, potentially reducing its lifespan. Regular cleaning of the skimmer basket, pump basket, and filter is crucial if your dog regularly swims. Checking equipment frequently can help prevent hair and other contaminants from impacting water flow and filtration.
Essential Pool Maintenance for a Safe Swimming Environment
The best way to ensure a safe and healthy pool is regular water testing and proper chemical balancing. Here are some essential maintenance tips to ensure all family members can have a summer of fun!
Test your pool water at least once a week to ensure your pH levels are correct.
Regularly check your pool filter and equipment in case of fur build up.
Clear out your skimmer basket by scooping out any debris your dog may bring in.
Keep an eye on your pets while they are swimming!
Treat your water with Shock N Swim from Poolwerx.
And remember, you can book a pool maintenance service with Poolwerx and let us take care of it!
Additional Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe
Provide Fresh Drinking Water: While it’s generally safe for dogs to ingest small amounts of pool water, large quantities can upset their stomach. Keep fresh drinking water nearby to discourage pool drinking.
Supervise Your Pet: Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even those that are may tire quickly. Supervise your dog to prevent accidents and keep swimming sessions short.
Set Up Alternative Cooling Options: To minimise wear on your pool’s filtration system, consider using a shallow kiddie pool or sprinkler as a refreshing alternative for your dog on hot days
Sanitiser Levels: Maintain proper chlorine levels to neutralise bacteria like E. coli and other germs that could cause RWIs. Poolwerx offers free water testing to help you monitor these levels effectively.
Rinse Your Dog Before Swimming: Rinsing your dog with fresh water before they enter the pool helps remove oils, dirt, and loose hair, reducing the amount of contaminants they bring into the water
By following these guidelines, you can keep your pool water clean and safe for both human and canine swimmers. Regular water testing and proper maintenance are key, and Poolwerx is here to help with free* water testing at your local store.
*Free water test with the purchase of chemicals. See your local Poolwerx to learn more.
