Oregon summers give us plenty of reasons to get outside with our dogs. Rivers, lakes, beaches, and backyard pools can be wonderful places to exercise and bond. But water can also create real risks, especially when pets are tired, overheated, curious, or drinking water they should not.
Not Every Dog Is a Natural Swimmer
Some dogs love water. Others are built in a way that makes swimming difficult. Flat faced breeds, senior pets, overweight dogs, and dogs with short legs or heavy bodies may tire quickly. Even strong swimmers can panic, get caught in a current, or struggle to find their way out of a pool.
A well fitted life jacket is one of the best safety tools for dogs around water, especially on boats, rivers, or deep lakes. Choose one with a sturdy handle so you can help lift your dog if needed. For pools, teach your dog where the steps or ramp are before an accident happens.
Algae Can Be Dangerous
Blue green algae can be extremely dangerous to dogs. Pets may become sick by drinking affected water, licking wet fur, or eating dried material along the shore. Avoid water that looks scummy, foamy, brightly colored, or paint like. If your dog is exposed, rinse them with clean water and do not let them lick their coat.
Signs can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, staggering, tremors, seizures, or collapse. These signs require emergency veterinary care. When in doubt, keep your dog out of questionable water.
Salmon Poisoning Disease
Oregon dog owners should also know about salmon poisoning disease. This potentially fatal disease is seen in dogs that eat certain raw fish from the Pacific Northwest, including salmon, trout, and steelhead. Dogs should not be allowed to eat raw fish, fish carcasses, or fish scraps found near rivers or beaches.
Signs often include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and lethargy. Without treatment, this disease can be life threatening. If your dog eats raw fish or scavenges near a river, call your veterinarian.
Leptospirosis and Standing Water
Another water related risk is leptospirosis, a bacterial disease spread through urine from infected wildlife or other animals. Dogs can be exposed by drinking from puddles, wading in contaminated water, or contacting wet soil. Leptospirosis can affect the kidneys and liver and can also pose a risk to people.
Not every dog has the same exposure risk, but in Oregon, many dogs hike, camp, visit parks, or explore wet environments. Talk to your veterinarian about whether the leptospirosis vaccine makes sense for your pet.
Do Not Forget the Ears
Many dogs develop ear problems after swimming. Moisture trapped in the ear canal creates an environment where yeast and bacteria can grow. I recommend cleaning and drying your dog’s ears after swimming, especially if they swim often or have a history of ear infections. Watch for head shaking, scratching, redness, odor, discharge, or pain.
Water activities should be fun, not frightening. With supervision, fresh drinking water, ear care, and caution around natural water sources, your pet can enjoy Oregon’s beautiful outdoors safely.
For more information on veterinary care and pet safety, visit www.nimbuspet.com.
