Cool pool precautions for pets and wildlife

With local temperatures topping more than the mid-90s and no rain in site, many South Louisianans seek solace in swimming pools. Unfortunately, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) reports backyard pools are not always a welcome respite for pets and wildlife. One of every 1,027 pets drowns in a pool each year, and tens of thousands of wild animals suffer the same fate.
“We hear about pool drownings through our wildlife hotline,” says HSUS’ Urban Wildlife Program Field Director Laura Simon, “and it is tragic, because these events are preventable.”

All types of animals—skunks, mice, ducks, fledgling birds, lizards, chipmunks, frogs, snakes, etc.,—can find themselves in a pool with no lifeline or firm footing. Especially at risk are the wild animal babies, whose curiosity leads them too close to the edge where they frequently topple in. Snakes in the pool skimmer and other submerged wildlife can also pose a bite risk to humans.
So, the HSUS recommends these pool precautions to reduce the risk of pets and wildlife drowning in pools:

• Always supervise pets in a yard with a pool.

• Design a pool with lounge ledges along the sides to allow pets shallow areas to drink, play and easily escape from the water.

• Fence off the pool area decrease access to neighborhood animals and wildlife.

• Install one or more water-exit devices such as the Skamper-Ramp (skamper-ramp.com) or Frog Log (froglog.us). These white, buoyant devices are easily visible and allow animals to get out on their own.

• Secure knotted nylon ropes at strategic points along the sides of the pool. Make sure the knot is at the water’s surface so a raccoon, squirrel, mouse or other animal with claws can easily grip the line and climb out.

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