26/09/2026
Introducing PAWS Before They Swim! 💙
Over the past few months, I’ve been talking increasingly about the difference between recreational dog swimming and clinical canine hydrotherapy.
And I want to make something really clear:
I’m not against fun dog pools.
Swimming can be fantastic enrichment, exercise and, most importantly, great fun for dogs who enjoy it.
But swimming isn’t automatically appropriate for every dog.
When a dog has pain, lameness, arthritis, an injury, a neurological condition, has recently undergone surgery or needs rehabilitation, the reason they’re swimming and who is overseeing that swimming becomes incredibly important.
That’s why I’m developing PAWS Before They Swim.
Before a dog enters the water, think:
P — PURPOSE
Why are they swimming?
A — ASSESS
Are they suitable for recreational swimming?
W — WELFARE
Are they safe, comfortable and coping?
S — SCOPE
Is this recreational swimming, or does this dog need veterinary or rehabilitation support?
My aim with PAWS is simple: education, clearer boundaries and safer swimming for dogs.
Recreational swimming has its place. Clinical hydrotherapy has its place.
Knowing the difference protects dogs. 💙
Over the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing much more about each part of PAWS and why these four questions matter.
PAWS before they swim. 🐾
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