During the summer months in the Pacific Northwest, many families head to lakes, rivers, pools, and beaches to cool off. While water offers a refreshing break from the heat, it’s important to remember that water safety is essential not only for people but for pets as well. Each year, thousands of family pets drown—often in preventable circumstances.
Drowning incidents are far more common in dogs than cats, and many pet guardians mistakenly believe all dogs are natural swimmers. The truth is that dogs and cats—just like children—can easily fall into pools, ponds, and other bodies of water with steep edges and no accessible exit. Even a small bucket of water can pose a risk to a curious cat.
What Is Drowning and Near-Drowning in Pets?
Drowning occurs when a pet is fully submerged in water and can no longer breathe, resulting in oxygen deprivation and loss of lung function. In most cases, exhaustion plays a major role.
A near-drowning, more accurately called nonfatal drowning, happens when a pet survives submersion and oxygen deprivation for more than 24 hours. Even when a pet seems to recover, internal injuries can still occur, and veterinary attention is essential.
As water is inhaled, it floods the lungs and damages the alveoli—the tiny sacs responsible for oxygen exchange. This can lead to pneumonia, decreased oxygenation, and organ injury. The type of water, presence of chemicals, temperature, and duration of submersion all affect the outcome. Pets have only minutes underwater before brain damage and organ failure begin.
Drowning is a medical emergency. Even if your pet appears normal after submersion, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Complications can develop hours later.
At our shared facility, BBVSH and Animal Emergency Care work together to provide comprehensive 24/7 support—from emergency stabilization to advanced diagnostics, treatment, and recovery. Whether your pet arrives during the day or after-hours, our teams are in close communication to ensure timely, coordinated care.
Signs of Drowning or Near-Drowning in Pets
Whether or not you saw your pet fall into water, be alert to symptoms that may indicate submersion:
- Coughing (with or without red, foamy saliva)
- Difficulty breathing or respiratory distress
- Hypothermia (low body temperature)
- Blue gums (cyanosis, a sign of oxygen deprivation)
- Vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Apnea (not breathing)
Diagnosing Drowning and Near-Drowning
While drowning is often evident due to the circumstances, near-drowning complications require veterinary assessment. Your vet may perform:
- Blood tests (CBC, chemistry, urinalysis) to monitor organ function and electrolytes
- Blood gas testing to assess oxygen and pH levels
- Chest X-rays to check for fluid or pneumonia (changes may appear 1–2 days later)
- ECG monitoring for arrhythmias
- Endotracheal washes to detect infection
- Advanced imaging (CT/MRI) in cases of suspected brain injury
Treating a Pet After a Near-Drowning Incident
Treatment begins immediately, even before reaching the vet.
If your pet is unresponsive:
- Begin mouth-to-muzzle resuscitation or pet CPR
- Clear the airway of debris
- Use towels to dry and warm your pet, as hypothermia is common
At the hospital, pets will be given oxygen therapy—via mask, oxygen cage, or intubation. An IV catheter allows delivery of fluids and medications.
Depending on severity, treatment may also include:
- Cardiac medications
- Antibiotics
- Anti-cough medications
- Medications to reduce brain swelling
Recovery time varies from days to weeks. Pets who are conscious on arrival generally have a favourable prognosis if complications are avoided.
Long-Term Concerns After Drowning
Complications may arise following a near-drowning and require monitoring:
- Pneumonia or fluid in the lungs
- Gastrointestinal issues (bleeding, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Kidney damage
- Neurological injury or brain damage
- Abnormal blood clotting
- Central diabetes insipidus (a condition affecting water balance and urination)
How to Prevent Your Pet from Drowning
Most drowning incidents are preventable. Take the following steps:
- Always supervise pets near water—even strong swimmers
- Use a pet lifejacket any time your pet is swimming or boating
- Teach dogs to swim (start young); cats should be kept away from open water
- Avoid tossing toys into deep water, which can lead to accidental inhalation
- Use leashes near open water if you’re unsure of your pet’s swimming ability
- Teach a reliable recall command
- Ensure pets have a way to exit boats and pools safely
- Fence pools and use pool alarms; avoid pool covers that pets can fall through
- Install pet-friendly ramps or ladders to help pets exit water
- Even strong swimmers should wear a life jacket when near water
Learn Pet CPR and First Aid
Unfortunately, not every accident can be prevented. Knowing pet CPR could save your companion’s life. These resources can help you learn the basics that might just save your pet’s life.
Other Water-Related Hazards for Pets
- Hot Spots
Wet coats can cause skin infections if they don’t dry thoroughly. Look for red, irritated areas. To prevent, dry your pet completely after each swim and remove wet collars.
- Limber Tail
Overuse of tail muscles during swimming may cause limber tail syndrome—a limp, painful tail. If it occurs, consult a vet and let your dog rest.
- Blue-Green Algae
This toxic algae can be fatal if ingested. If the water looks questionable, keep your pet out. Call us or the Pet Poison Helpline (1-855-764-7661) if you suspect exposure.
- Waterborne Illnesses
Lakes and rivers can harbour diseases like Leptospirosis and Giardiasis (Beaver Fever). Avoid stagnant water and talk to your vet about vaccination and parasite prevention.
With awareness and proactive care, drowning and water-related hazards are preventable. Let’s make summer safe and fun for everyone—including your pets. If your pet experiences a water-related emergency, Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital and Animal Emergency Care are here for you 24/7—no appointment needed.
