Chasing the hose is a popular summer game for many dogs, but it is important to be aware of the dangers of secondary drowning. Secondary drowning can occur hours or even days after a dog has inhaled water, and it can be life-threatening.

When a dog inhales water, it can irritate the lungs and cause inflammation. This can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs, which can make it difficult for the dog to breathe. Secondary drowning can occur when this fluid buildup is severe enough to block off oxygen from reaching the bloodstream.

There are a few things that you can do to avoid secondary drowning in your dog:

Avoid letting your dog play vigorously with the hose. If your dog is panting heavily or has water dripping from its nose, stop the game immediately.
Be aware of the signs of secondary drowning. These signs can include coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and anxiety.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog after it has been in the water, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Never leave your dog unsupervised near water. Dogs can drown quickly, even in shallow water.

Here are a few safer alternatives to chasing the hose:

Fill a small kiddie pool with a few inches of water. This is a great way for your dog to cool off without the risk of inhaling water.
Give your dog a good soak with the hose. Just be sure to keep the hose pressure low and avoid spraying your dog directly in the face.
Take your dog swimming in a safe, supervised area. Be sure to keep a close eye on your dog at all times and make sure that it takes breaks to rest.