The Pool
The Pool has many added extras.
*
Heated water * Showers * Adjustable swim jets
* Dog Hair dryers * Non slip ramps * Exercise area * Electric Hoist
* Harnesses and life jackets
The benefits of swimming at the dog pool are
so many but the heated water is a real plus. Swimming in called water is not as beneficial as swimming in warm water. Cold
water can cause cramps and the dogs will be a lot stiffer, it is also very painful for dogs when the cold gets into the bones
and joints. The Dog pool's water is controlled by a thermostat which is means that we can keep the water at a steady temperature,
not too hot so it damages the dogs natural oil in their coats and not too cold to cause stiffness. We also have taken
many courses in hygiene and understand the importance of keeping a controlled and steady temperature.
Adjustable swim jets are just that! Jets that
can alter the current in the water make swimming tougher going for the fitter dog.
Dogs can walk in and out of the pool
via gentle sloping non slip ramps.
For dogs who are unable to access the pool
via the ramps we also have an electric hoist which quietly lifts the dog up and gently lowers the dog into the water.
After your dog has had a good swim we will
shampoo him. We use a gentle and natural moisturising shampoo which leaves his coat beautiful, soft, clean and shiny.
We don't just stop at a shower we can
also blow dry your dog for you. Very handy if you don't want a wet soggy doggy on the back seat of your car.
The dog pool is set in a totally fenced area
so it is totally safe to let your dog of so he can safely stretch his legs and answer natures call!
For the less confident swimmers we have life
jackets to fit all sizes. We can also attach them to a rope harness to help give your dog a little guidance and confidence.
The pool is massive - 20ft by 10ft and 4ft
deep, it's unique oval design enables us and owners to walk all the way round the pool so you can keep contact with your dog
at all times should you wish to, not only that as the pool is sunken the water and pool side is waist height so no need to
bend and stretch.
What actually happens?
There are no hard and fast rules about
a trip to the Dog Pool. We want it to be an enjoyable and helpful experience for your dog, and a relaxing one for you. You
will have the pool to yourselves for the whole of the appointment - normally half an hour - so you can decide exactly how
much swimming would be best for your dog. Jayne and Jo are there to advise and help
When you arrive, we normally let your dog wander
around the pool for a moment to get used to the environment and sniff all the smells! We'll then put a life jacket on as this
helps particularly the first few times - it is just like putting on armbands when you learned to swim. Then, depending on
how brave your dog is feeling, we either let him walk up the ramp and into the water, (some dogs jump right on in, but others
are a bit more tentative) or we will lift them in to the water. we have a purpose built hoist to help with the reluctant,
heavy or injured dog.
Either Jayne or Jo have been known to put on
a wet suit and get in the pool to help the dogs. We attach a harness to the life jacket, to help guide your dog around the
pool and feel comfortable and confident swimming. Once your dog has got his confidence in the pool, we will let him off the
harness to swim alone. We get out of the pool and leave them to it!. There are plenty of toys available to add to the
fun.
When your dog needs a rest - swimming can be
very tiring - he can either come back up the ramp, or we lift them out. Stand back when they shake! They can pop in and out
the water as often as you and they wish during the appointment. At the end of the session it's time for a shower and towel
off and we may just have a biscuit or two for them.