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Category: pool safety

Pool Safety for Pets: How to Keep Your Furry Friends Safe Around Backyard Pools

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Pool Safety for Pets:
Keep Your Furry Friends Safe Around the Water

For many pet owners in San Jose, a backyard pool is a summer essential. But while pools are fun for humans, they can be dangerous for dogs, cats, and other pets if the proper safety precautions aren’t taken. At Prins Pools—San Jose’s trusted pool contractor since 1999—we care about the whole family, including the four-legged members. Here are our top tips for making your pool a safe and enjoyable space for your pets.

 

1. Install a Pet-Safe Pool Fence or Cover

Even if your pet is a strong swimmer, accidents can happen. A secure pool fence or a high-quality safety cover can be a life-saving barrier when you’re not around. Choose mesh or slat fencing that pets can’t squeeze through, and opt for a sturdy pool cover that can support weight and won’t sag into the water.

 

2. Teach Your Pet How to Exit the Pool

It’s not enough that your dog can swim—he needs to know how to get out. Train your pet to use the pool steps or a pet-safe ramp and practice this regularly. There are several pet ramps available that attach to the pool deck and provide a gentle incline for easy exiting.

 

3. Never Leave Your Pet Unsupervised

Just like children, pets should never be left alone near water. A slip, an unexpected fall, or even panic in the water can put them at risk of drowning. If you can’t keep an eye on your pet while they’re outdoors, it’s best to keep them securely indoors or in a fenced yard away from the pool.

 

4. Use a Pool Alarm

Pet-specific pool alarms are available that detect unexpected movement in the water. Some attach to your pet’s collar, while others float and monitor water disturbances. These devices provide an extra layer of security, especially for households with curious pets.

 

5. Rinse After Every Swim

Pool chemicals can irritate your pet’s skin and eyes or cause stomach upset if ingested. Always rinse your pet with fresh water after a swim to remove chlorine or salt. Pay attention to their skin for signs of dryness or irritation and keep ears dry to prevent infections.

 

6. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Even with precautions, emergencies can occur. Learn pet CPR and keep emergency numbers, including your local vet and 24/7 animal hospital, on hand. Consider posting them near the pool for quick access.

 

Trusted Pool Professionals in San Jose
Prins Pools has been building and maintaining beautiful, family-friendly pools since 1999. We’re committed to helping San Jose families enjoy their pools safely—pets included. If you’re thinking about upgrading your pool area with safety features, we’d be happy to help.

How to Properly Winterize Your Pool in California

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California winters may be milder than those in other parts of the country, but that doesn’t mean pool owners can skip winterization. Protecting your pool during the off-season helps prevent damage, keeps maintenance costs down, and ensures an easier transition when spring arrives. Here are the steps you should take to properly winterize your pool in California’s unique climate.

1. Clean the Pool Thoroughly

Start by removing leaves, debris, and dirt from the pool using a skimmer net and pool vacuum. Clean the pool walls and floor to prevent algae and stains from forming over the winter months. Scrubbing away grime now will save you a lot of hassle when you reopen your pool.

2. Balance the Water Chemistry

Properly balanced water is crucial to prevent scaling, corrosion, and algae growth. Test the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. Ideally, your pool’s pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8, and alkalinity should range from 80 to 120 ppm. Adjust these levels as necessary before moving to the next step.

3. Shock the Pool

Adding a chlorine-based shock treatment helps kill any bacteria or algae that might linger during the winter. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your pool size. Shocking the pool ensures the water remains sanitary even as it sits unused for months.

4. Lower the Water Level

In California, completely draining your pool isn’t necessary. However, you should lower the water level to below the skimmer to avoid damage in case of unexpected freezing temperatures. Use a submersible pump or your pool’s filtration system to carefully remove excess water.

5. Protect the Plumbing

Although freezing temperatures are rare in California, they can still occur, especially in higher elevations. Drain the pool’s pipes, pump, filter, and heater to prevent water from freezing and causing cracks. Use a shop vacuum to blow out water from the plumbing lines, and plug them with winterizing plugs.

6. Cover the Pool

Invest in a high-quality pool cover to keep debris out and reduce evaporation. A proper pool cover also protects your pool’s surface from UV damage. Make sure the cover fits snugly and is securely fastened to prevent wind from dislodging it.

7. Monitor Throughout the Winter

Even during the off-season, periodic maintenance is important. Check the cover for tears or sagging, and remove accumulated water or debris. Test the water chemistry occasionally to ensure the levels remain stable. If algae or cloudiness develops, treat it promptly to avoid bigger issues later.

8. Consider Professional Help

If you’re unsure about any of these steps, hiring a professional pool contractor like Prins Pools can save you time and effort. Experts can ensure your pool is winterized correctly and offer tips tailored to California’s specific conditions.

Stay Ahead of the Season

By winterizing your pool, you’re not only protecting your investment but also ensuring a smooth start to next year’s swimming season. For professional guidance or assistance, contact Prins Pools in San Jose, CA. With years of experience in pool maintenance and care, Prins Pools can help you keep your pool in excellent condition year-round.

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