Vet Anne Fawcett: How drinking ocean water can be deadly for your dog
UNFORTUNATELY when dogs are in the ocean, lots of them like to have a drink. Here’s why it could be deadly.
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AUSTRALIANS love to swim — and so do many of our dogs. To ensure you have fun, there are a few hazards to be aware of.
The most important thing is to ensure your dog enjoys the water. If you have to drag your dog into the surf, you’re better off playing on the sand.
Unfortunately, when they’re in the drink, lots of dogs like to have a drink.
Drinking salt water can cause vomiting. Provide plenty of freshwater for your dog to drink and discourage him or her from drinking salt water.
Some dogs love retrieving balls, frisbees or sticks. As a vet, I see all of the nasty lacerations caused by sticks so I recommend avoiding them. When retrieving items, some dogs inhale water.
Over a period of time this can build up to dangerous levels, and cause what we call near drowning or even drowning. Limit and supervise any water-based retrieving and head to the vet if your dog has difficulty breathing or coughing.
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Also, check water depth before allowing your dog to jump in to avoid injury.
Finally, think about where you swim your dog. If it is not safe for you — and depending on where you are in Australia, this may be because of sharks, crocodiles, stingers, rips or rocks — then it isn’t safe for your dog.
Dr Anne Fawcett is a lecturer in veterinary science at the University of Sydney and a vet with Sydney Animal Hospitals Inner West.
Read her blog: smallanimaltalk.com