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MOTHER KNOWS BEST
We are about to move to a new house that has a pool. How do we prepare our dogs for this new adventure? Thanks, Esther Williams Wannabees Dear Esther, Thanks for asking this important question. Many people think that dogs can swim without instruction and pools present no problems for dogs. True most breeds can swim, however it’s the getting in and out that can present the biggest problem. Never permit the dogs in the pool area unless they are well supervised. This is especially important for puppies and older dogs, they do not possess the stamina for prolonged swims and getting out of the pool can be difficult. A pool is not a natural water setting. Most do not have the easy slope or gradient of nature. If a dog falls in far from the steps he may not be able to stay afloat long enough to survive. Many city ordinances require fences around pools for the safety of children for much the same reason. If they fall in they may not be able to swim or be able to get out. Once in the water the dog, too, may not be able to just walk out. With guidance the dogs can be taught where the steps are by getting in the pool with them and guiding them to this and rewarding the behavior (for some dogs just getting out of the water is reward enough). The water level in most cases is below the edge of the pool sufficient to make it very difficult for a dog to pull himself out of the water and remember all pools from the dog’s perception are the deep end. Please be sure you and your children understand this rule and do not swim without an adult present. Dear Mom, I am having trouble with the COME command. We have no trouble with DOWN or SIT, we just don’t hear COME. Where are we going wrong? Thanks, No-Go Joe Dear Joe, Give COME commands only if you can follow though - if the dog is chasing your cat around the back yard and you yell COME he most likely won’t. If he elects not to obey, you have no means of correcting him. Practice COME for fun things at first. COME and get a cookie. COME and get in the car for a ride. Never for COME and have a bath, or COME and be brushed. As the dog learns you are the leader and COME means something good he will learn that COME means now and it means something good on the other end. |
