Arizona HVAC Worker Saves Blind Dog Drowning in Pool
A family staying at their parents house in Queen's Creek, Arizona had a very frightening experience when their ten-year-old blind bulldog named Malone fell into the backyard pool.
Thankfully, a heroic HVAC repairman named Hunter Hitchens who was at the house repairing the heaters acted fast to save the dog.
Malone's owner, Kim Slaughter, said they were staying at her parents house while their new house is being built. Temperatures were in the 30s when Malone the dog fell into the water. When Malone fell in the water and Hitchens heard all the commotion he sprang into action. AZ Family reports the scary incident.
“I saw the panic set on her face, and the dog got out of her arms and started floating to the middle of the pool,” Hitchens said. “By the time I hit the back door I already had the jacket off about to take the second one off because I knew either I had to go in or she had to go in.”
Related: Dog Miraculously Saved From Drowning by a Delicious Baked Good
Hitchens was able to reach down into the water and lift the 60-pound dog out of the water. The dog is usually never outside without a leash on, according to his owner, and we are just happy this sweet senior pup is safe and sound. Hitchens is an ab solute hero for his fast thinking!
How To Keep Your Dog Safe Around a Pool
Ideally, you should teach your dog to swim. Dogs have a natural ability to "doggy paddle" but not all dogs are natural swimmers. When first starting out, it's a good idea to stay in shallow water and have your pup fitted for a life vest. Some cities even offer dog swimming classes so check with your local aquatic center.
Install a pool fence and add an alarm so if an animal or person gets near the pool you will be alerted. Don't leave you pup outside near a pool unattended, no matter how strong of a swimmer they are, and if your dog isn't a fully confidant swimmer yet, keep them leashed around water.
Teach your dog to enter and exit the pool. Try and curb your dog from jumping into the pool and teach them to use the pool steps, so if they do fall in they understand how to get out.
Swimming is a great exercise for dogs and as they age can help with arthritis and joint problems, but as with anything else that has to do with our fur babies, safety first!
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