Installing a pool at your home gives you the perfect place to make beautiful memories with your family. While it’s always a good idea to give your dog a few swimming lessons and have them wear a life jacket if they go in the pool, you also want to take additional precautions to prevent drownings. Protecting your pet from accidentally getting into your pool without supervision means that you can relax and enjoy your home’s most popular water feature.
Store Chemicals Out of Your Pet’s Reach
Drowning isn’t the only worry you have with pets and pools. A curious dog or cat might accidentally ingest harmful chemicals if they find them sitting around the pool. Make sure to create a safe place to keep pool cleaners and other chemicals out of your pet’s play space. A shed works well, and you can also install a lock and self-closing doors for additional protection.
Choose a Non-Slip Surface For the Deck
Adding pavers and slabs to the deck area creates a water-resistant space for everyone to walk, and you won’t have to worry about dealing with a muddy lawn from all of those splashes. However, you will want to make sure to choose slip-resistant materials for the deck and patio. Make sure to let your contractor know that you anticipate having a pet that could play near the pool, which makes it easier for them to help you choose the right type of paver material.
Secure the Perimeter With a Wall System
In many areas, homeowners are required to put a barrier around swimming pools to protect both children and pets from harm. While you’ll find a variety of fencing materials are available, a wall system is even safer. Modern wall systems that are made from solid blocks won’t have gaps like you’ll see in a fence. Additionally, you can install lighting and other features along the wall system that add to the aesthetics of the swimming area.
Install a Motion-Activated Alarm
Every pool safety plan should also include a motion-activated alarm. Just in case a gate gets left open, you’ll want to know if your pet somehow manages to get in the pool. Motion-activated alarms can send you an alert if a person or animal falls into the water. Depending upon the system you choose, you may hear an audible alarm that lets anyone in the area know that something is amiss. You can also choose a smart alarm that sends messages to your phone, even if you are away from home. Being able to respond quickly could make the difference in saving a pet’s life when timing is critical.
As you create a safe outdoor space for your pet to play, remember that layers of protection are more effective than only taking a single action. Pairing a wall with a non-skid surface around the pool helps to prevent more than one cause of water-related pet accidents. Plus, the effort you put into making a safe pet play space also protects children and non-swimmers who spend time in your backyard.