Updated 4-3-25
Since we first posted the following blog on the problems of letting pets use your hot tub, even more reports of concern have come to light. And we think this topic is worth revisiting.
Alas, Dogs Love Hot Tubs):
For one thing, dogs don’t sweat and they can not regulate their bodies and adjust to temperature change like humans. In addition, a popular United Kingdom veterinarians website “vets-now.com” posted a story on how dangerous hot tub chemicals can be for pets.
As they tell it, one Sunday, immediately after topping up his hot tub with fresh chemicals, the owner went briefly into the house. Not long after, his dog followed him there — panting and gasping for breath.
“I ran into the garden and when I saw water on the steps by the tub, I realized he’d gotten up and licked the foam with all the chemicals.
“It was so scary. We phoned Vets Now right away, and they said to put him in the car and get him to them just as fast as we could.
“It was longest journey of my life. I was crying all the way and kept talking to him to make sure he was still with us.”
After getting assistance, the good news is the dog was back to normal; but it is a helpful cautionary tale to watch your pets closely around hot tubs. (See full post Vets Now post here.)
NEXT TWO PARAS EDITED
Best Hot Tubs’ own Bill Renter has always urged caution. It is his dog pictured in our feature photo at the top of this page.
“After adding chemicals,” says Bill, “it’s a good idea to ensure your pet is safely confined to the house. And if your pet really really wants to join you in the hot tub, we’re offering some helpful ideas in this blog.”
Dogs and Hot Tubs
Your Dog’s Sad Eyes
Your pooch no doubt frequently wants to join you in the hot tub. And his sad eyes might make you want to give in. To help you resist, remember that despite your dog’s opinion to the contrary, he isn’t really human.
Nikki as a Pup
Take Nikki, the cocker spaniel in our feature photo above. He belonged to Best Hot Tubs’ owner, Bill Renter. Nikki had been around hot tubs since she was a pup. And ever after, she tried to get in not just the spas in Best Hot Tubs showrooms, but in the Renter home hot tub.
“No matter how many times you bathe them, even short-haired dogs manage to pick up extra dirt and debris as they go about their day,” says Bill. “If they get in the spa water, they bring all that with them not to mention they shed their hair in the tub. Plus, many dogs have been sprayed for ticks etc. All this taxes the hot tub’s filters and purification systems, not to mention the dirtier water isn’t fun for the humans.”
If you want to bring your pet in the hot tub despite that cautioning, suggests Bill, at a minimum give your dog a good rinse immediately before he takes the plunge. One caution, however. Once inside, the dog might not be as happy as he thought he’d be. He may panic. And he can scratch the hot tub while frantically trying to get out. Remember, dogs don’t sweat, so a temperature that is comfortable for you might be too hot for the dog.
Elevated Dog Bath
Furesh Elevated Folding Dog Bath
Bill and other hot tub experts have the perfect solution. There are elevated dog baths that you can place next to the hot tub. Beside the spa, Fido’s bath can be the perfect temperature for him and he won’t feel left out. You can even lean over and give him a kiss and hug while you’re relaxing in your spa.
Best Hot Tubs Client:
At the left of this photo is one of our clients’ dogs. As you can see, he’s eagerly expecting something to happen. He’s just not sure what. But whatever you do, don’t look into his eyes too long or you’ll be inviting him into the hot tub and regretting it later.
Dog Bath Tub
In the end, the best thing for your hot tub, family, and dog is to get Fido a bath that you can put near your spa. Especially during COVID 19, you’ll want to keep your hot tub clean and sanitized. It’s only sensible, then, that you won’t want to put stress on your hot tub’s water care system by adding the extra debris a dog would add. Do consider the separate doggy bath.
Contact:
Sales/Service/Windham, NY
Route 23 & Co Road 65, Windham, NY 12496 (518) 734-9100.
Service only/Long Island/Metro, NY
Email: Carmen@besthottubs.com | Phone: (631) 465-0175
