The Hidden Dangers for Dog Owners Who Live on Lakefront Property

While owning a dog means puppy-proofing the home and yard for any owner, keeping a pet on lakefront property presents a unique set of challenges. Other than the most obvious threat (drowning), there are hidden dangers that all dog owners must be aware of before allowing a pet to roam freely on lake properties. Be prepared, stay alert, and know the safety concerns for your dog by briefing yourself on the following lesser-known risks.

First and foremost, the issue of drowning must always be addressed. Of course, you're already aware of the drowning risk, but sadly many dog owners make the mistake of believing that if they are supervising their pet, the risk is diminished. While supervision is necessary for your pet's safety, strong winds and even mild currents may prevent you from being able to reach your dog in time should an accident occur. Take the proper precautions and install "pet climbers" on the banks of your property, preferably at several different locations as well as precisely where your pet plays most often. These inexpensive life savers are generally used in pool settings, but they can also be installed on man-made, lined lakefront properties.

Next, address the issue of your dog viewing your lake as a giant water bowl. While we tend to think of freshwater lakes as natural hydration sources for wildlife, domestic pets are at risk for intestinal problems and even fatal diseases spurring from bacteria growing in lakes. Keep the water bowls fresh and train your pet to refrain from drinking from the "great water bowl" in the backyard.

A very common but quite hidden danger for pets who drink from and play in lakes is recurrent eye infections. Because our pets aren't thinking about bacteria and germs, they aren't likely to stop playing in their favorite water holes when eyes become red and itchy. As a result, thick green mucous membranes denoting infection are common in dogs who enjoy lakefront living. If your dog is given access to the lake waters under your supervision, do be sure to speak to your vet about eye cleansing solutions that can be used as needed to prevent discomfort and infection.

Even if your pet is not allowed access to the water at any given time, what many lakefront property owners neglect to remember is that wooded areas offers a wide array of "interesting" new treats for their pets. Mushrooms, nuts, and wild plants are often poisonous for dogs and grow rampantly on lakefront properties. Because it would be virtually impossible to completely remove the dangers, do what you can to train your pet never to "bottom feed" at any time, including in his/her own home.

On that note, wildlife areas also offer brand new "toys" for dogs to play with in the form of mice, squirrels, snakes, deer, turtles, ducks, etc. Not only is the risk of injury present should a chase or bite ensue, but the risk of rabies is much higher. Be sure that your pet is up to date on his vaccinations and that the proper amount of time has elapsed for them to take effect before bringing him/her along on your lake excursions. Remember that it doesn't take initiation on the part of your pet to bring on a bite from a rabid animal. Sick animals are naturally aggressive, meaning the danger posed to your pet for infection is even greater.

If you own a boat or walking dock, as many lakefront property owners do, your dog may enjoy long naps and sunbathing on this warm, inviting area. While generally a safe habit if under supervision, rain and sleet can pose a great danger to dogs that regularly have access to docks. Running and playing on a wet, slippery dock are guaranteed to cause an injury and/or a fall into the waters at some point. If your dog often greets boats, ducks, swimmers, and other passersby by barking at them or attempting to initiate play from the dock, be sure that he/she is kept indoors when conditions are wet.

Finally, lakefront property owners must also be keenly aware of the potentially deadly hidden danger of high humidity. Close proximity to the water means higher humidity than surrounding areas, meaning that your dog is already at higher risk for dehydration and heat stroke (remember, most dogs suffering from heat stroke and dehydration suffer from high humidity in the area, not necessarily high heat). What may seem comfortable to you may be excruciating for your pet, so limit outdoor play time and keep water bowls high at all times, during every season of the year. Dogs on waterfront properties are at risk for succumbing to humidity spikes every day, not just during the summer. Rather than paying attention merely to temperatures, keep an eye on humidity levels in your area and keep in mind that your humidity may be a bit more extreme than what neighbors living away from the lake may be experiencing.

Curiosity and playfulness abound in every dog, but a slip of the paw or a growl in the wrong direction on a lakefront property can mean grave danger for your pet. Stay alert and remember the hidden, lesser-known dangers that are posed to your furry friend when he/she is enjoying the water with you.