Spitzies and swimming
It has been a rough week in more ways than one and just wanted to get this tidbit of info out there before anything else crops up : (
It important to note that not all dogs know how swim or will learn to swim on their own.
Shibas/Spitizies have been known to wonder drowning in creeks and other tributaries since their coat weights them and feet are not up for the task of swimming any distance. Some animals simply cannot coordinate themselves or have the buoyancy to stay afloat.
Given that pool season is here, rather than have your pet sink like a stone or fall in and drown be sure to supervise or have a pool alarm set so you know when a pet or child falls in. Having a pet ramp or scamper ramp for easy exit and teaching your pet how to use it can be a lifesaver. Never force a pet that does not like water by throwing it in and assuming it will swim.
A pet flotation vest during dock work or boating can help if your pet accidentally slips.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25585446/
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It important to note that not all dogs know how swim or will learn to swim on their own.
Shibas/Spitizies have been known to wonder drowning in creeks and other tributaries since their coat weights them and feet are not up for the task of swimming any distance. Some animals simply cannot coordinate themselves or have the buoyancy to stay afloat.
Given that pool season is here, rather than have your pet sink like a stone or fall in and drown be sure to supervise or have a pool alarm set so you know when a pet or child falls in. Having a pet ramp or scamper ramp for easy exit and teaching your pet how to use it can be a lifesaver. Never force a pet that does not like water by throwing it in and assuming it will swim.
A pet flotation vest during dock work or boating can help if your pet accidentally slips.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25585446/
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Comments
One involving a former rescue and their family pool and other who had a Shiba escape and drown in a local creek.
It's tough and sadly there isn't anything that can be done to change what is.
RIP ...may there be peace on the other side for both.
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Thanks for the info. We're planning a week long trip to Maine with our shibas and planned on visiting a public dog friendly beach. Usually Tsuki will go in shoulder deep in a lake or stream, whereas Kitsune and Hachi usually just go in paw deep for just a few moments. I know Pam (Hachi's mom) wanted to see how she will be in the ocean, I'm definitely passing this info along.
RIP shibas.... :`(
RIP little shibees.
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Dexter seems to LOVE water...almost to the point where it seems unnatural, lol
But thanks for the info, I will deffinitely be keeping a closer eye on him around water from now on
I always keep my eyes on Kirby when we are playing ball in the water. (When he swims.) I do not throw the ball too far either.