swimming Archives - Go Sunset

08 Aug 2017

Dogs in Swimming Pools

By Sunset

As it gets warmer you will likely start swimming more often, and you may be tempted to bring your dog in the pool with you. If you have one, however, before you do this you should know a few things and take some precautions. This blog will discuss the tradeoffs of dogs swimming in your pool, so you can know whether or not swimming is a good fit for your dog. Also, don’t miss a clip of Nate’s adorable new puppy (who’s not so much of a puppy anymore) Ragnar at the end of the blog.

Make Sure Your Dog Can Swim

People commonly assume that all dogs are natural swimmers, but this is not true. Some breeds of dogs instinctively doggy paddle when placed in water, but other breeds that are top heavy with short legs cannot swim well and will be at harm in a pool. Some examples of breeds that can’t swim are bulldogs, dachshunds, pugs, and boxers just to name a few. Thus, before you go throwing your dog into the pool trying to get it to swim, you should check to make sure your dog can swim by researching and testing their swimming abilities in shallow water.

Is It Safe for Dogs in Chlorine Pools?

Chlorine is not inherently dangerous for dogs, but, like many other things, the hazards of chlorine are dose dependent. Dogs’ eyes, ears, and noses are more sensitive than humans, so they may be more irritated by the chlorine than you. However, for the most part chlorine pools are safe for dogs, as long as they are not drinking the water in large amounts.

Be Wary of Shedding

Different breeds of dogs have various levels of shedding, but if your dog sheds heavily then its hair may pollute your pool and clog your filtration system if it goes swimming. After all, nobody wants to go swimming and come out covered in dog hair. If your dog does shed heavily and you still want to allow it to swim then just try to brush it ahead of time to limit shedding in the pool.

Maybe Opt for A Kiddie Pool

Maybe your dog sheds too much or maybe it can’t swim well, but it still wants to swim. Well, a kiddie pool can be the perfect solution. Dogs can have plenty of fun in kiddie pools while remaining safe and keeping your pool nice and clean.

In the end, the decision about whether to let your dog go swimming depends on the type of dog. If you have a dog that loves to swim, doesn’t shed, and can swim well then let them jump in the pool and join the family. However, if your dog sheds heavily, cannot swim, or maybe hates swimming then you should avoid bringing them in the pool and maybe opt for a kiddie pool instead. Having your dog in the pool can be a great experience, but like most other things you always should be careful and make sure you take precaution.

Watch Ragnar having a blast in his pool.

10 Aug 2016

Getting Your Kids in the Pool

By Sunset

A pool is a great way to improve a backyard, but, let’s be honest, nobody builds a pool just to look at it. Pools are meant for swimming and to have fun in – the perfect environment for kids. However, these days kids would rather play Pokémon Go than go swimming. If you have a pool and feel like your kids aren’t using it to its full extent, then check out the tips below on how to get your kids in the pool.

Weekly Pool Parties

The pool party can be for just your family or with other kids from around the neighborhood; regardless, a pool party is a great way to get the most out of your pool. It doesn’t have to be anything big and elaborate, rather just mark a date on the calendar and plan a small party. Simply invite some people, grill up some food, and turn on some music and you have yourself a pool party that will surely encourage your kids to jump in.

Swim Lessons

This one’s for younger kids, but swim lessons are a great way to get your kid swimming and loving pools. Swim lessons can be in your pool or at a separate location. Watersafe Swim School is a good, neutral location option and is located across the street from Los Alamitos High School and next to Volcano Burger. www.sunsationalswimschool.com is one website you can check out if you’re more interested in having swimming lessons in your pool.

Pool Toys and Games

Pool toys and games are two great ways to get your kids to play in the pool. Toys can range from floaties to basketball hoops and simple games like Marco Polo can even be exciting. Check an upcoming blog for more toys and games that people of any age can enjoy. What are your kids’ favorite pool games? Comment below and we may include your kids’ favorite game in our blog.

Underwater Photos

There are various ways to take underwater photos whether it be with a GoPro, Lifeproof case, or cheap underwater camera. Underwater pictures can turn out to be super cool and kids are sure to love them, whether they want to post the pics on their Facebook, Instagram, or simply just look at the photos.

Build a Mecca in your Backyard

Don’t you want your kids in your backyard? From young and learning to swim to home from college on summer break, I’ve loved that my kids and their friends want to hang out at “Casa de Zahn.” It’s more fun for us too and brings peace of mind knowing where they are and what they are doing.

Children are very precious! You only get a few chances at raising them, so you want to make sure you make the most of the time you have with them. Watching your kids grow up is truly a miraculous thing and there’s nothing better than sitting poolside watching them play on a hot summer day – this is why you need to follow a few of these steps and get your kids in the pool.