A Dog Life Jacket Will Save Your Dog’s Life
Many of us assume that all dogs know how to swim. That they are born with the natural ability to swim. While this may be the case with most dogs, there are some that swimming doesn’t come naturally. These dogs can and will drown and therefore these dogs should be fitted for a life jacket if your lifestyle means you are around the water often. Even dogs who are strong swimmers should sport a life jacket when boating or doing any activity around water that could result in the need to swim long distances in the event of an emergency.
Dog life jackets are becoming very popular and as such there are more and more styles and options on the market today. They are reasonably priced and come in many different sizes. It’s important that your dog be properly fitted for their size and weight. Always bring your dog with you to the store to ensure a proper fit and choice.
Just like dog clothes and boots, your dog will require an adjustment period. Dog life jackets are a little bulkier than dog sweaters and your dog may not be overly enthusiastic about wearing their new apparel. Let your dog try it on and wear it a few times before the event comes that he/she is required to wear it for a long period of time. Most dogs adjust quickly and don’t mind wearing it. These jackets are manufactured to be comfortable for your dog and not tight or restricting on their ability to move.
Choose a bright vibrant colour such as yellow. That way you and anyone else can visibly see your dog out in the water (particularly boats). Most of the designs come with adjustable Velcro straps for around their necks and stomach. Be sure to properly secure the snaps and ensure that they aren’t’ too tight. Most of the designs also come with handles that can prove to be very handy for quickly grabbing or picking your dog up out of the water. Assuming your dog is small or light weight. Regardless, these handles act as an added safety measure in an emergency situation giving a rescuer a way to hold onto or tow the dog to safety.
Today the patterns and designs vary greatly providing you the consumer lots of choice. Polk-a-dots, camouflage, stripes, etc. They are all very attractive but don’t let style cloud your judgement and remember that ultimately the jacket is used to save your dog’s life so make sure you choose a bright colour that can be viewed by all out in the water.