Winter swimming

Question
Hi Anne,

I have a 7 month old rescued Australian Shepherd. She was diagnosed with hip dysplasia last month. She also suffers from panosteitis. Surgery is in the near future for her. There's a natural spring fed pool near our home that remains about 68 F year round. I have to limit her exercise to that of leash walks, but swimming has been OK'd by her doctors. I'm wondering if Australian Shepherd's coats offer insulation from chilly water. She has the shorter coat of working stock, but it is nonetheless quite thick. The air temperature varies widely as we are in Texas. I would like to take her swimming in this particular pool. She enjoys swimming and if we do venture in I will be with and guiding her the entire time. Do you think her coat would offer sufficient insulation from this temperature water? I greatly appreciate your time and advice in advance.

Thank you,

-D

Answer
I would suggest that you check with your vet regarding the proper temperature that would be therapeutic in her particular situation.  Generally, that water temperature would be well tolerated by most Aussies, depending on the air temperature, just on the basis of their wash & wear double coat.  If it were me, however, and the outdoor temperature was less than in the 70's, I would probably not swim a dog with joint issues in cool or cold water, and I would certainly dry and warm the dog up afterward even when the water is warm (as an arthritis sufferer I can tell you that extended cold & moisture is not your friend).  You may not be aware, but there are canine physical therapy practitioners who make use of aquatherapy pools for dogs in a controlled environment - I suspect that the water and air temps are higher than what you have in the spring fed pool.  You may want to talk to your vet or the nearest teaching veterinary college for a referral.  Here's a link to some folks who might be able to help you locate a facility nearby: http://landofpuregold.com/challenge-physical.htm#TEXAS
Good luck!