Backyard pools offer a fantastic way to cool off and have fun during warmer months, and often, our furry family members are eager to join in. While seeing a dog joyfully paddling or a cat cautiously dipping a paw can be heartwarming, it’s crucial to remember that pool water isn’t just plain water. It contains a cocktail of chemicals designed to keep it clean and safe for humans, but these same chemicals can pose risks to our pets if we’re not careful.
Understanding Pool Chemicals
To keep pools sparkling clear and free from harmful bacteria and algae, several chemicals are commonly used. Knowing what’s in your pool is the first step towards ensuring your pet’s safety around it.
Chlorine: This is the most common pool sanitizer. It kills bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. While the diluted levels in a well-maintained pool are generally considered safe for brief swimming by most pets, concentrated chlorine (like tablets or granules) is highly corrosive and dangerous. Even the diluted form can be irritating if ingested in large amounts or if a sensitive pet spends too much time in the water.
Bromine: Often used as an alternative to chlorine, especially in hot tubs, bromine works similarly as a sanitizer. It tends to be a bit gentler on skin and eyes but is still a chemical that shouldn’t be ingested. Like chlorine, concentrated bromine is hazardous.
pH Balancers: Chemicals like muriatic acid (to lower pH) or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda, to raise pH and alkalinity) are used to keep the water chemistry balanced. Imbalanced pH can make the sanitizer less effective and irritate skin and eyes for both humans and pets. Concentrated forms of these balancers are caustic.
Algaecides: Used to prevent or kill algae growth. Some algaecides, particularly certain copper-based ones, can be toxic if ingested in sufficient quantities.
Shock Treatments: Periodically, pools are “shocked” with a high dose of oxidizer (usually chlorine-based) to break down contaminants. Pool water is definitely unsafe for pets (and people) immediately after shocking.
Potential Risks to Pets
Exposure to pool chemicals can affect pets in several ways. Awareness of these potential issues helps underscore the importance of preventative measures.
Ingestion Hazards
Dogs, in particular, may lap up pool water while swimming or playing fetch. While a tiny sip from a well-balanced pool might not cause immediate harm, drinking significant amounts can lead to problems. The chlorine or bromine can irritate the esophagus and stomach lining, potentially causing:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Lethargy
- Abdominal pain
Ingesting water with very high chemical levels (like right after a shock treatment) or, far worse, accessing and consuming concentrated chemicals like undiluted chlorine tablets, can cause severe internal burns and is a veterinary emergency.
Skin and Fur Irritation
Just like some humans find chlorine drying or irritating, pets can experience similar issues. Prolonged exposure can strip natural oils from their skin and coat, leading to:
- Dry, flaky skin
- Itchiness and excessive scratching
- Redness or rashes
- Dull, brittle fur
Pets with existing skin conditions or allergies may be particularly sensitive.
Eye and Ear Problems
Pool chemicals can easily irritate sensitive eyes, causing redness, squinting, or discharge. Furthermore, water getting trapped in a dog’s ears after swimming can create a moist environment perfect for bacteria and yeast, potentially leading to painful ear infections. This is especially common in breeds with floppy ears.
Respiratory Issues
Though less common from just swimming, the strong fumes from concentrated chemicals, especially when stored improperly in poorly ventilated areas or during shock treatments, can irritate a pet’s respiratory tract.
Keeping Your Pets Safe: Practical Tips
Fortunately, enjoying pool time with your pets can be done safely with some common sense and preventative habits.
Safe Chemical Storage
This is non-negotiable. All pool chemicals – chlorine tablets, shock treatments, pH adjusters, algaecides – must be stored in their original, tightly sealed containers. Keep them in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area that is absolutely inaccessible to pets (and children). A locked cabinet or shed is ideal. Accidental ingestion of these concentrated chemicals can be fatal.
Critical Safety Note: Always store pool chemicals securely, far out of reach of curious pets and children. These substances are highly concentrated and can be extremely dangerous if ingested or improperly handled. Treat them with the same caution you would any hazardous household product; secure storage prevents tragic accidents.
Prevent Drinking Pool Water
Discourage your dog from using the pool as a water bowl. Always have a large bowl of fresh, clean water available near the pool area. Train your dog to drink from their bowl, not the pool. If they take a few laps while swimming, it’s usually okay, but actively drinking should be stopped.
Rinse After Swimming
After your pet finishes swimming, give them a thorough rinse with fresh water from a hose or in a shower. This helps remove residual chlorine and other chemicals from their fur and skin, reducing the risk of irritation. Pay attention to rinsing their underside and paws.
Dry Thoroughly, Especially Ears
After rinsing, dry your pet well with a towel. Pay special attention to their ears. Gently wipe the outer ear canal with a dry cloth or cotton ball (don’t insert anything deep into the canal). For floppy-eared dogs prone to infections, using a veterinarian-approved ear drying solution after swimming can be beneficial.
Observe Waiting Periods
Never let pets swim immediately after adding chemicals, especially after a shock treatment. The chemical levels will be dangerously high. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or your pool service company’s advice regarding the waiting period before swimming is safe – this often ranges from several hours to a full day, depending on the treatment.
Consider Alternatives (Carefully)
Some pool owners explore alternatives like saltwater pools or ozone systems. Saltwater pools still use chlorine (generated from salt), so the basic precautions still apply, although the chlorine level often feels less harsh. Other systems might reduce chemical reliance but rarely eliminate it entirely. Research these options thoroughly and understand they still require maintenance and safety checks.
Supervision is Key
Never leave pets unsupervised around the pool, whether they are swimming or just nearby. Accidents can happen quickly, including falling in or accessing stored chemicals if precautions fail.
Know the Signs of Trouble
Be observant. If your pet seems unwell after swimming or being near the pool area, watch for signs of chemical irritation or poisoning: excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, difficulty breathing, skin redness/itching, pawing at the eyes, or unusual lethargy. If you suspect your pet has ingested concentrated chemicals or is showing severe symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic immediately.
Having a backyard pool doesn’t mean your pets have to miss out on the fun. By understanding the potential risks associated with pool chemicals and implementing consistent safety practices, you can create an environment where both humans and furry companions can enjoy the water safely all season long. Prioritizing safe storage, preventing ingestion, rinsing after swims, and diligent supervision are the cornerstones of responsible pet ownership around pools.
