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Pets love being where their people are, and in Phoenix, that often means by the pool. When the heat hits triple digits, it’s only natural for dogs to follow their families outside, lounging poolside or jumping in for a refreshing dip. It should come as no surprise that most pet owners in Phoenix are more than happy to let their dogs enjoy a lap in the pool, especially during the hottest months.
But while we always point out the importance of child safety, pet pool safety in Phoenix is rarely talked about. Yet the dangers are real. Drowning, heat exhaustion, paw burns, and chemical exposure are all risks pets face in a typical Phoenix backyard. And they can happen in seconds, even while you’re home.
If your family has a pool, let’s make sure your pet enjoys the most of it, all summer long.
Living in Arizona means dealing with extreme heat, intense UV exposure, and dry desert air. With Phoenix ranking second in the nation for pet ownership, and nearly every backyard in the metro area featuring a pool, it’s no surprise that pets often gravitate toward the water.
Even in the early morning or late evening, the ground radiates heat. Now imagine how that feels for a dog with a thick coat or a cat walking barefoot on concrete. These conditions put pets at higher risk around pools, even if they never go in the water.
Here’s why:
Start by introducing your pet to the pool slowly. Don’t toss them in and hope they figure it out. Instead, use obedience training, a long leash, or a flotation harness during early sessions so you can gently guide them in and out of the water. The goal is to help them feel safe and in control.
Teach them where the pool steps or ramp are, and use visual markers to make the exit easy to recognize. This is especially important for small dogs or older pets who might struggle to find a way out during an emergency.
A solid pool fence for dogs is your first line of defense, kind of like a trusted pet-sitter who never blinks. But not just any fence will do. If you’re in Phoenix, you’ll want something stylish, sturdy, and suited to the desert sun.
Mesh pool fences with self-closing and self-latching gates are perfect because they offer clear sightlines (so your yard doesn’t feel closed off) and tough protection. These fences meet ASTM F2286 standards, which means they’re built to last and keep dogs, big or small, away from unsupervised pool access.
If you’re considering installing one, take a look at our pool fence options for Phoenix homeowners. We custom-fit fences for all types of yards and pool layouts, with materials designed specifically for the Arizona sun.
If your pet is going to be spending time near the pool, the right gear can make a big difference. These items aren’t just “nice to have”; they can help prevent accidents and keep your furry friend more comfortable under the Arizona sun.
Start with a life jacket, especially if your pet is new to swimming, has short legs, or tends to tire quickly. A properly fitted life vest adds buoyancy, keeps your dog visible in the water, and gives you peace of mind, even during short swim sessions.
Another must-have is a floating ramp or pet-friendly pool stairs. Many pets panic not because they’re in the water, but because they don’t know how to get out. Ramps with a gentle incline and grippy surface help smaller or anxious animals exit the pool on their own, reducing stress and danger.
You might also want to invest in a pool alarm designed for pets. These devices detect ripples or water pressure changes and alert you the moment something (or someone) enters the pool unexpectedly. If your dog tends to wander near the water when you’re inside, an alarm can buy you precious time in an emergency.
No matter how much your dog loves the water, supervision is the most important thing you can do to keep them safe around the pool.
Some dogs get disoriented once they’re in the water and can’t find the exit. Others push themselves too hard and suddenly tire out. Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs are especially vulnerable; they struggle to regulate their breathing and can overheat quickly, even if they seem excited and full of energy.
If your pet is near the pool, you should be too. Be present, attentive, and distraction-free. Put the phone down, grab a towel, and stay engaged. Your watchful eyes are the best safety tool there is.
Hot concrete can burn paws in seconds, especially during midday hours when surfaces can exceed 130°F. Always test the ground with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
Always make sure your pet has a safe, shady spot to retreat to. An umbrella, canopy, or covered patio works great. And don’t forget to offer plenty of clean, fresh water too. While some may see pool water as a substitute for tap water, the chlorine can upset your pet’s stomach or make them dehydrated.
For pets with light-colored fur or pink skin, pet-safe sunscreen is a must. Noses, ears, and bellies can all burn under direct sunlight, and it can happen fast. And if your pet has a short snout, is a senior, or carries extra weight, be extra cautious, as these breeds are prone to heat strokes.
Before your pet even jumps in, it helps to condition the coat. Chlorine and heat can irritate your pet’s skin, especially around the ears, paws, and under the collar. Rinse them off with clean water and dry thoroughly to avoid moisture getting trapped.
It’s also a good idea to swap out their water bowl if they’ve been drinking pool water and check their paws for scrapes or burns after play.
Keep an eye on how they’re acting. If your pet seems itchy, tired, or just not themselves, they might be reacting to something from the swim.
If your pets are part of your life, pet pool safety in Phoenix should be just as routine as applying sunscreen or pouring another glass of iced tea.
Train your pet to find the pool exit before accidents happen. Install a pool fence for dogs if you haven’t already, and when the heat rises, remember your pet feels it too. Shade, hydration, and downtime matter just as much as fun in the sun.
At the end of the day, your pet just wants to be near you. With a few simple safety habits, you can make sure pool time stays safe, cool, and filled with tail wags all summer long.
Pool Guard USA is a US-based pool safety equipment manufacturer specializing in pool fences, pool covers, pool safety nets along with installation services throughout the United States.
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