“The truth, I do not stretch or shove
When I state the dog is full of love.
I’ve also proved, by actual test,
A wet dog is the lovingest.”

~ American poet Ogden Nash

The predicted thundershowers eluded us. Billowing thunderheads built over the mountains, but came no closer. Not a drop of rain fell but the air was saturated with moisture. The resulting humidity, combined with high temperatures, made life in the Foothills a bit uncomfortable. A nap, a cool shower and/or a dip into the pool brought some relief. How about the CV cats and dogs? What to do…

Dogs and even cats are natural swimmers, but some take to the water more readily than others. One would assume a Golden Retriever would jump right in, taking to it “like a duck to water!” Brighton, our pup, is an exception. A mountain lake or stream is fine by her but she puts her paw down when it comes to swimming pools. So she doesn’t love it for recreational use; oh well. She is still pool safe. At the beach or around a pool with your pet (and children) – both are very likely places during the summer – keeping close watch is vital.

Like with our children, swimming lessons are must … even if you don’t own a pool. Soon after we adopted Brighton, it was time to learn. Our biggest fear was/is if she accidently fell into the pool would she know how to get to the steps and climb out? Very likely a dog would panic if this happened. None of us wants to imagine the outcome, as it is seldom a good one.

It’s estimated that thousands of family pets die in drowning incidents each year, though real numbers are not known because most incidents go unreported. Prevention, of course, is key. Several times during the year, our dog learns the closest route to exit the pool. Most dogs are eager to dive in, but we had to carry Brighton in. Wear long sleeves to avoid being scratched? One of us remains at the steps as the other takes her out into the water. As she is released, she is guided and called to the steps. Repeat, repeat, repeat! After each swim, a good rinse with the garden hose reduces skin irritation from chlorine. We have also used a trainer. Email me for information.

During the summer months, a high-pressure system over the Four Corners pretty much tells our weather story – hot. The end-of-week forecast for most of Southwest California shows no exception. The coastal areas get a break as morning low clouds and fog result in a substantial temperature drop. If all goes well, over the weekend inland areas and valleys (that’s us!) will be the recipients of cooler weather. Yes!  But back to seasonal norm by early next week …            

“Okay, Brighton, be the retriever you are! It’s pool time!”