Pet Safety Blog

How could a dog life vest be a handy tool for a dog that has arthritis?  Labradors and Golden Retrievers are susceptible to arthritis as well as other large breeds, and watching them suffer from this painful non-curable disease is a terrible experience.  There are medications that help to relieve their extreme pain, but in addition to the medication, there is also something that pet parents can do for their pet to help strengthen their weary bodies, and alleviate their pain.  Take them swimming during the warmer months; it would be too cold during winter unless you have an indoor pool.  Some people do have one for year around exercise, and it is especially good for humans that suffer with arthritis.  There is proof that not only will swimming help humans, but dogs as well who have the same type of disease.  The benefits of swimming will not only increase their strength, but helps to lubricate their joints that will lessen their pain.  Dogs that have hip dysplasia will benefit as well to this type of exercise, and will help to alleviate some of these painful health problems.

Most dogs love to swim, some are good swimmers and others are not, especially if the dog is older, but never allow your dog to enter any body of water without a certain accessory that could save their life.  Dog life vests help them to stay afloat, and make it easier for them to exercise their limbs even when in pain.  If your dog loves to go boat riding with their pet parents, not only do they wear life vests so must your dog.  There is always a chance that they will become tired, and older dogs could overexert themselves.  Most all dogs are natural swimmers, but some breeds do not have the body fat as other breeds and are most likely not concerned about going into water.  Dog life vests are different sizes and colors to meet the needs of your dog.  Very bright colors are great in keeping track of where your dog is in the water.  Consider the occasion when taking your dog swimming.  If there are other dogs around, excitement could arise and distract your dog if they have not been socialized.  This could become a situation you do not want to experience.  These are my thoughts, but remember if you are out in the water, become tired and need help, you can scream or holler, but your dog cannot.  Be Happy!