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How to Keep Wildlife & Pets Safe Around Your Swimming Pool

Apr 26th 2023

happy golden Laborador retriever swimming in swimming pool on sunny day


Originally published 1/23/2018

Your swimming pool acts like a magnet, luring family and friends looking for a cool dip. However, it can just as easily attract wildlife and pets.

If you have pets, how do you keep them safe around the pool? And how do you prevent fatal accidents to local wildlife?

Here are some tips for pet pool safety:

Teach Pets How to Swim

dog paddling in swimming pool

Swimming comes naturally to some pets; for others, not so much. As with children, the best protection against accidental drowning is to prevent animals from getting near the water in the first place. Nevertheless, if your cat or dog accidentally falls into the water - especially if you’re not nearby - there’s a better chance of them staying afloat until help arrives if they know how to swim. Just as important is making sure they know how to get out of the pool again. For pets that are poolside regulars, consider using an animal life vest and learning Pet CPR.

Take Care of Special Needs Pets

Animals with special needs are particularly vulnerable around swimming pools. Older pets may have impairments that put them at higher risk of accidentally falling into a pool than healthy, active pets. Those same disabilities would make it harder for them to get out again, too. The best way to keep your dog out of the pool is a good, solid fence and/or hard surface pool cover. A pet swim vest can provide additional reassurance. 

Are there Frogs in Your Pool?

Pool accidents occur with animals of all kinds, including frogs, squirrels, snakes, geese and even deer! Whether to escape a predator, get a drink or just out of plain curiosity, these critters end up in pools quite often, especially swimming pools located under trees and elevated structures. Sometimes, animals are able to escape on their own. If they aren't so lucky, however, you are left with the cleanup. Fences, pool covers and ramps are helpful in preventing accidents with wildlife. Also, pick up any poolside food spills and trash that might attract little creatures.

Invest in Safety Accessories

Fortunately, there are many products on the market to help keep wildlife out of your pool, or at least help them escape safely if they do fall in.

Put up Fences

A pool fence is one of your most important safety features. In fact, your municipality probably already requires a fence around your above ground or inground pool. Another option is a removable pool fence that can be placed around the perimeter of your swimming pool.

Use a Pool Cover

Pool covers are one of the best ways to keep pets and wildlife safe and dry. Some hard covers are sturdy enough for an animal to walk across without falling in. More flexible covers may not protect pets and large animals, but should keep most smaller critters from taking a swim. Covers are also handy for keeping leaves and other debris out of your pool to help minimize the time you spend cleaning.

Consider Pool Ramps

Pet ramps - made primarily for inground pools - have saved many animal lives. Some dogs don’t look before they leap. They’re eager to jump into a pool but unable to climb back out onto the pool deck or ledge. Waterlogged fur can add extra weight and make exiting the pool even more challenging. Ramps make it easier for pets to climb out. If you don’t have a dog, you can buy a smaller escape ramp that provides an exit route for frogs, mice, birds and other small animals.

Buy a Pool Alarm

Floating weight-detection alarms sound an alarm in your home if an object greater than a certain weight disrupts the surface of the water. This helpful safety device provides extra peace of mind for parents and pet owners.

Use Animal Life Vests

in many fun designs and colors, but don’t buy a pet swim vest based on style alone. It’s important to consider your pet’s size and weight when choosing a pet life vest. You may have to try on several models before you find one that’s right for them.

Take Additional Measures

Consider a variety of deterrents to ward off animals. For instance, some pool owners find it helpful to install sprinklers near the area. Floating alligators and rubber snakes are not just pool pranks. They can help scare away the animals on which these creatures prey. Some people also use natural deterrents sprinkled, sprayed or laid around the pool, including cotton balls dipped in ammonia, garlic powder, mint leaves, lemongrass or cayenne pepper spray.

Pools are a great way to enjoy the summer and cool off on a hot day, but they can be treacherous for animals. By being aware of hazards and taking the proper precautions, you can help lessen the danger for pets and other animals.


Visit the blog on our sister site, Pool Central, for more information on pool maintenance, pool safety, pool toys, backyard recreation and patio and garden decor.

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