Pets In The Pool: Pet Safety & Pool Clean Up

Arizona summers aren’t just hot for people - pets feel it too! Many dogs (and the occasional brave cat) love cooling off with a dip in the family pool. But if you’re a pool owner, you’ve probably wondered: is it safe for my pet to swim in the pool, and what does it mean for my pool’s upkeep?

The good news? With the right safety precautions and a few cleaning tips, your pool can be pet-friendly and crystal clear.

Can Dogs Swim in Chlorinated Pools?

According to PetMD.com, “pool water contains very dilute levels of chlorine and is unlikely to cause chlorine poisoning in humans or animals. A pet is more likely to become ill from a lake or pond filled with microorganisms than from swimming in a properly maintained pool.”

So yes - it’s generally safe for your dog to swim in a well-maintained, chlorinated pool. However, there are a few risks you’ll want to keep in mind.

Health & Safety Risks for Pets

Chlorine Tablets

Never let pets near stored pool chemicals. Ingesting chlorine tablets can cause poisoning — always keep them sealed and out of reach.

Ear Infections

Dogs who swim often are more prone to ear infections due to trapped moisture. Dry ears thoroughly after each swim.

Fatigue & Drowning Risk

Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Older dogs, small breeds, or those with joint issues can tire quickly. Always supervise swimming pets and install a pet ramp or steps so they can easily exit the pool.

Chemical Sensitivity

Some pets may have sensitive skin or eyes. Rinse them with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine residue.

With proper attention and supervision, pets can safely enjoy pool time right alongside their humans.

How to Keep Your Pool Clean When Pets Swim

Dogs bring a lot of joy - and a lot of fur. Pet hair, dander, and oils can strain your filtration system and throw off your pool chemistry. Here’s how to stay ahead of it:

Before Your Pet Swims

• Brush or de-shed your dog to remove loose fur.

• Rinse pets off with clean water to reduce dirt and body oils.

• Keep chemical levels balanced - pets increase pH and consume chlorine faster.

  
  

During Swim Time

• Skim and check baskets before and after your pet swims - sometimes several times per day if you have multiple pets.

• Use a skimmer sock over the basket to trap fine hair before it clogs your filter.

• Encourage breaks for your dog to prevent fatigue and reduce shedding in the water.

After Swim Care

• Vacuum or hand-skim the pool to remove floating hair or debris.

• Clean your filters more often than usual - pet hair builds up quickly.

• Use enzyme treatments to help break down pet oils and dander.

• Shock the pool as needed if the water looks cloudy or the chlorine drops.

If your pool has heavy pet use, talk with a professional about upgrading to a stronger filtration system such as a high-efficiency cartridge or DE filter. It’s one of the best long-term ways to keep pet hair under control.

When to Call a Pool Professional

There’s no reason your furry friends can’t enjoy pool time safely - it just takes a little extra care and cleaning. So grab a ball, throw on the sunscreen, and enjoy some splash time with your four-legged family member.

If you notice reduced water flow, frequent filter clogs, or cloudy water that won’t clear up, it’s time to bring in the pros. A professional pool company can:

• Deep-clean your filter system

• Rebalance water chemistry

• Recommend the right equipment for pet-friendly maintenance

Schedule your pool cleaning service with Sunset Pool Care for fast, reliable help in Chandler and Gilbert, AZ.

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