Swimming pools are a great source of fun and relaxation for homeowners, but they can sometimes attract unexpected visitors from the animal kingdom. From frogs and birds to squirrels or even larger wildlife, animals occasionally find their way into pools, either by accident or curiosity. But what should you do if you find an animal in your pool? This article will guide you through the necessary steps to handle the situation safely for both you and the animal.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
The first thing you need to do is assess the situation and identify the type of animal in your pool. The actions you take will depend on whether the animal is still alive or not and the size or species of the animal.
Common Animals Found in Pools:
- Small Animals: Frogs, toads, birds, mice, or squirrels.
- Larger Wildlife: Raccoons, snakes, opossums, or even deer.
- Domestic Pets: Occasionally, pets like cats or dogs may accidentally fall into the pool.
Step 2: Ensure Your Safety First
Before attempting to remove an animal, it’s essential to prioritize your own safety. Certain animals may pose a risk to your health or safety, particularly if they are frightened or aggressive.
- Wear Protective Gear: If you plan to handle the animal yourself, wear gloves to avoid direct contact. Animals can carry diseases, and even a small bite or scratch can lead to infection.
- Avoid Aggressive Wildlife: Larger animals, such as raccoons or snakes, can be dangerous if cornered. If you encounter an aggressive or wild animal in your pool, it’s best to contact local animal control or a wildlife rescue service for assistance.
Step 3: Gently Remove the Animal (If Safe)
For smaller, non-aggressive animals that are still alive, you can attempt to gently remove them from the pool. Here’s how to safely do so:
Frogs, Toads, and Small Critters:
- Use a Pool Net: Gently scoop the animal out of the pool with a pool net, being careful not to harm it.
- Place in a Safe Area: Once removed, place the animal in a safe area away from the pool, such as a garden or bushy area, so it can recover and return to its natural habitat.
Birds:
- Gently Scoop: Birds that land in pools are often stunned or exhausted. Use a pool skimmer or net to scoop them out, and let them dry off in a shaded area until they can fly again.
Domestic Pets:
- Act Quickly: If your dog or cat falls into the pool, act quickly to lift them out of the water. Pets may panic and struggle to swim for long periods. Dry them off and monitor for any signs of distress.
Step 4: Address a Deceased Animal
If the animal is deceased, it’s essential to remove it promptly to prevent contamination of your pool water.
- Wear Gloves: Always wear protective gloves when handling a deceased animal.
- Use a Pool Net: Use a pool skimmer or net to carefully remove the animal from the pool. Avoid direct contact.
- Dispose of Properly: Contact your local sanitation department for guidance on the proper disposal of dead animals in your area.
Step 5: Sanitize Your Pool
Once the animal has been removed, it’s important to properly sanitize your pool to ensure that it’s safe for swimming.
- Shock Your Pool: After removing the animal, shock the pool to kill any harmful bacteria or pathogens that may have been introduced. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your pool shock product.
- Check Water Chemistry: Test the water’s chemical levels, particularly chlorine and pH, to ensure that they are back within the recommended range for safe swimming.
- Run the Filter: Run your pool filter for several hours to circulate and clean the water. You may need to clean or backwash the filter afterward to remove any remaining debris.
Step 6: Prevent Future Incidents
To avoid future encounters with animals in your pool, consider the following preventative measures:
- Install a Pool Cover: A secure pool cover can help prevent animals from accidentally falling into your pool when it’s not in use.
- Use Pool Fencing: Install a pool fence to deter larger animals and pets from wandering too close to the pool.
- Provide an Escape Route: For small animals, consider placing a “frog log” or similar floating device in the pool, which gives them a way to climb out if they fall in.
- Remove Attractants: Keep the area around your pool clean and free of food or trash that might attract wildlife.
Step 7: Contact Wildlife Experts (If Necessary)
If you encounter a large, dangerous, or endangered animal in your pool, or if the animal appears injured, contact your local wildlife rescue or animal control services. These professionals have the experience and equipment to safely handle the situation.
Important Safety Considerations
- Do Not Attempt to Rescue Aggressive or Large Wildlife: If you encounter animals like snakes, raccoons, or larger mammals, avoid trying to remove them yourself. These animals may carry diseases like rabies or act unpredictably when stressed.
- Avoid Handling Animals Bare-Handed: Always use gloves or a tool like a pool net when removing animals, even small ones like frogs, to minimize the risk of injury or exposure to diseases.
Conclusion
Finding an animal in your pool can be an unexpected and sometimes distressing situation. By following the steps above, you can ensure the safety of both yourself and the animal while maintaining the cleanliness of your pool. If this becomes a recurring issue, implementing preventative measures like fencing or pool covers can significantly reduce the chances of wildlife entering your pool area.
If you need help maintaining your pool or would like advice on the best safety features to install, contact Sunset Pools & Spas. Our team is here to help ensure your pool is safe, clean, and ready for swimming all season long.