The Canine and Feline Sector Group (CFSG) has today published new Canine Recreational Pool Guidelines, providing a clear framework to support high standards of safety, welfare and professionalism across the growing dog swimming sector.
With dog swimming increasing in popularity across the UK as a low-impact form of exercise and enrichment, the guidelines set out practical, welfare-led recommendations for operators of recreational canine pools. The document clarifies the distinction between leisure swimming facilities and regulated hydrotherapy services, ensuring that medical treatment and recreational activity remain clearly separated.
The guidance covers key operational areas including dog suitability screening, staff competence and supervision, session structure, water quality management, facility design, legal compliance, record-keeping and environmental considerations. It reinforces that operators retain a duty of care under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and related health and safety legislation.
Among the core recommendations are:
- Structured pre-session health and behaviour assessments
- Supervision by trained staff, with canine first aid competence
- Clear limits on session duration to prevent fatigue
- Robust, dog-safe water treatment systems
- Secure, non-slip facility design with safe entry and exit points
- Detailed record-keeping and emergency procedures
The CFSG emphasises that recreational swimming must never be marketed as hydrotherapy and should not be presented as a substitute for veterinary-led treatment.
The guidelines are intended to support responsible operators, promote consistency across the sector, and provide reassurance to dog owners that welfare is paramount.
The full guidelines are available on the CFSG website
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Dan Everett