So – as part of the ongoing learning and development that Marcus and dad do – the furbaby had his first proper swimming ’lesson’ today.
Bath times have got so much better and are just a given thing when he gets grubby.
First time in the sea – paws only as the waves scared him.
Second time in the sea – belly depth but he also had two other pooches showing him the way.
Today was a 20 minute managed fun swim in an indoor pool.
Local groomers near me is also a hydrotherapy rehabilitation centre for dogs and they also do fun swim sessions for dogs with zero confidence etc.
Run by a couple of ex veterinary nurses the place has had good reviews locally for their care and professionalism.
They put a harness on him (the same as he usually wears so next time I will just use his). Quick rinse off of his feet with shower then he’s gently encouraged into a warm indoor pool. DIfferent chemicals and levels to a human pool. He’s physically supported by the people throughout depending on how he’s getting on. Short swims with breaks out of the water (swimming is hard work!)
Confidence level when he first went in – 0%
Nervous level when he first went in – 100%
He masters the front paw action well – bit lazy with his back paws but that’s partially down to never swimming and needing to build up core strength.
At the end of the session he’s far more relaxed and swimming to the pool edge where I was. (I was outside the pool)
Confidence levels at the end – 80%
Nervous level at the end – 20%
Huge amount of fuss and treats given to him at the end.
Pretty good for a first session – we have booked another one for next week. I also plan to take him there just to have sniffs without having a swim session – that way it won’t always be associated with water. He might even get a proper grooming session there one day.
Picture taken after he had come out of the pool – now I have a very tired pooch.
For the price of a takeaway and a pint or two it was well worth it in my opinion.
Marcus and dad 