Does Your Dog Need A Life Jacket?

All dogs know how to swim, don't they?

No, they do not. This is a common misconception, probably helped along by the swim stroke referred to as the "dog paddle." Some breeds do not enjoy being anywhere near water and some breeds that have low body fat (Greyhounds, Whippets, etc.) may have a much more difficult time staying afloat and regulating body temperature. Fear and anxiety in the water, as when a pet falls in unexpectedly, can hamper normal respiration and swimming ability as well. Waves, undertows, currents and fast-moving rivers can overtake even the strongest swimmer. Wearing a life vest may be the difference between life and death.

 Of course, some breeds live to be in the water, such as the Retrievers and Labradors out there. However, even these "water dogs" can have trouble if they are elderly, sick, or overweight and out of shape. Fatigue can set in, and no matter how good of a swimmer they are, they may tire out and be unable to stay afloat. I am sure that many people can relate to occasionally overdoing it as far as exercise now and then. Some people have even experienced medical emergencies from being out of shape and doing too much. Like their human counterparts, many dogs (and cats) lead a much more sedentary life style these days, and gasping for breath while in water is not a good way to assess fitness levels.

 Have dog, will travel:

Dogs are part of the family, and more dog than ever are taking vacations with their families. For those that like to camp or travel to lakes, rivers and the coastal areas with their dogs, it is a good idea to stop and think about your pet being near water.

 I have Three Retrievers, but only two who love the water. My Lab and one of my Golden take frequent dips in ponds, rivers and lakes around town and on camping trips with the family.They both love to swim and doesn't even mind a nice cooling bath in the summer. So I don't really worry about these particular dogs needing a life jacket.But my other Golden was not really comfortable around water and we notice that he didn't want to join the others. We soon discovered that he is not a very good swimmer and has benefited from a life jacket. It allows him to join our two dogs, along with other dogs during swimming play date at the local lakes,ponds and rivers.

 If you are considering a life jacket for your dog, talk to other boaters and pet owners. The US Coast Guard, which regulates human life jackets, does not regulate vests for pets, so be sure to have your pet fitted for the vest that will work best. Dogs in particular come in every shape/size/weight, so be sure to get accurate measurements for a good fit. There are many jacket styles out there and the materials used have different levels of buoyancy in the water. I do not recommend leaving your pet unattended while wearing a life vest at any time -- they can be quite hot to wear if not in the water and your pet may chew or become entangled in the vest if bored or wanting to escape.