‘All dogs know how to swim, don’t they?’

Though the phrase “doggy paddle” exists, not all dogs know how to swim instinctively. Many conditions can even impair the ability of a dog that DOES know how to swim. Falling in the water can often prevent a human from getting the dog out, breeds with low body fat like Doberman Pinschers and Boxers can have trouble in the water that can lead to hypothermia, older dogs tire easily while swimming; and breeds prone to hip dysplasia or other joint disorders can lose their ability to paddle. Statistics show that 1 out of 1,027 pets drown a year in America. This explains why PetPlace.com listed pet life preservers one of the top ten safety products for pets.

I polled friends who are dog moms and asked whose dog wore a life vest and which ones are worth having. Not only did many tell me their dog wore a life vest, but they also recommended the brand. Interestingly enough, everyone used Fido Float Swim Aids, so accordingly, I began to look into these life vests myself. As much as my furbabies love to swim in their Grandpa’s pool, buying life vests was a no-brainer.

What I was looking for in a life vest for J.J. and Willis was sufficient floatation to keep their heads above the water (to prevent ear problems), and a strong, easy-grip (and easy to find handle) to lift them out of the water. Other notable features of Fido Float Swim Aids are: adjustability for sizing, durable material, a leash attachment, and neon colors for enhanced visibility.

Fido Float Swim Aids are sold at most major pet stores in the St. Louis area. They offer seven sizes from “Tiny” to “XX-Large.” Size is determined by the circumference of the dog’s chest at its largest part. I bought my boys “X-Smalls,” a neon yellow for J.J. and neon orange for Willis. They were too small for them and had to be exchanged for a larger size. I recommend adding 1 ½ to 2 inches to the chest measurement for a more comfortable fit.

I slid each of their front legs into the mesh underside opening, and then zipped the top from tail to collar. One black strap wrapped around the underside and should be pulled snug. Another adjustable strap rested in front of the front legs, but sat lower than the neck area. I assumed they would be comfortable because the vests had soft padded sides and nylon fabric. On the boys, they looked bulky and uncomfortable. After 10 minutes walking around on the patio, they began to adjust to their safety apparel. It was time to descend into the water.

Typically, when I am in the pool, J.J. and Willis eagerly plop in and swim right to me. With their vests on, they were hesitant. One at a time, spending a couple of minutes with each of them, it was like letting go of a child’s bicycle after removing the training wheels. Off they went with little paws paddling for their first independent entry into the “deep end.” Their new Fido Float Swim Aids not only kept their heads out of the water, but they were able to move their heads from side to side so they could see and steer themselves back to me.

Our new adventure was cut short by a big, gray rain cloud that was beginning to growl. I lifted J.J. and Willis out of the pool using the sturdy, easy-grip handles on their backs and set them back on dry land. While BoatUS members report they are not essential life-saving devices, the life vests are definitely valuable floatation aids. Along with added endurance for my dogs, my mind is eased with the protection from them sinking. J.J. and Willis give Fido Float Swim Aids two paws up!

You can e-mail Rachel Pelizzari at Rachel_pelzz@hotmail.com.