Are Vinyl Pool Liners Durable for Pets?
Picture this–a warm summer day, the sun warming up the backyard, and a cherished family pet splashing away in the family pool. For many homeowners, pool time with furry companions is just as joyful as the time they spend with their friends and family. However, most pet owners usually worry about pool durability and pet safety when they think about letting their pets in the pool.
This article explores the durability of vinyl pool liners and gives some key points all pet owners and professionals must know about the performance of certified vinyl liners.
Strength of Materials of Vinyl Pool Liners
Vinyl pool liners are highly recommended for pet owners, because they are designed to handle the scratches from pet claws and other playful antics. There is one important factor to notice: the type of vinyl pool liner chosen should be certified under CFFA-P-101 for durability and performance testing.
Vinyl liners that meet CFFA-P-101 certification are tested for their physical properties, like tensile strength, pliability, and stretch. Tear resistance is crucial, as it indicates how effectively a liner can withstand a small nick or cut, preventing further damage under the continuous tension of water pressure. This characteristic offers insight into the liner’s long-term durability, even when minor damage occurs.
Additionally, the print abrasion resistance test assesses the durability of vinyl prints when scuffed or scratched. This test simulates the typical wear and tear a liner may endure from cleaning, children, pets, and other factors, evaluating its ability to withstand and resist abrasion effectively.
Common Pet Concerns with Swimming Pools
When it comes to pets and pools, most homeowners prioritize durability. People often believe that pet nails can scratch or otherwise ruin vinyl pool liners. This belief is a bit more myth than fact.
In reality, sharp objects, with enough force applied, can puncture any material. Panicked pets trying to get out of a pool can cause increased pressure, which may lead to damage. As for regular everyday use, vinyl is capable of withstanding the playfulness of pets with ease.
This issue is less about material durability, and more about implementing best practices to ensure pets remain calm and safe in and around the pool. When pets are calm and confident around the water, they are far less likely to cause accidental damage.
Safety Measures and Tips to Keep Pets Calm Around Swimming Pools
CFFA-P-101 certified vinyl pool liners are tested with durability in mind, making them a strong option for homes with pets. But if homeowners still have concerns, they can take additional preventive measures to ensure the complete safety of the pet and the protection of the pool.
Take a look at these tips that can help make pets more comfortable around the pool.
- Swimming Skill Assessment: Not all dogs are instinctive swimmers, so the introduction to water should be done gradually. Acclimate them to small bodies of water, such as bathtubs or small kids' pools, before taking them to the big pool.
- Monitor Swimming Moments: Pets should always be monitored whenever they go swimming. Gentle introductions to the pool and supervised swims allow instant help if anything happens.
- Find the Steps in the Pool: Help guide pets around the pool for their first swims, to help them become used to finding their way out via the steps. Knowing their way out at all times minimizes panic.
- Rinse After Swimming: Chlorine can cause skin irritations to some pets, so it’s always advised to at least rinse them off with fresh water after pool time. This will help prevent negative associations they may create with the pool.
It's also equally important to know when swimming may not be in a pet’s best interest. If a homeowner observes or suspects any of the following, consider keeping the pet away from the pool:
- Lack of Confidence in the Water: Any animal apprehensive in the water should not be pushed into the water, as this can create panic leading to injury. If a homeowner knows their pet doesn’t like water, it’s best to skip pool time.
- Health Problems: Older pets or those prone to health problems should avoid swimming. If a dog has been vomiting, experiencing diarrhea, or has skin infections, it's advisable to keep them out of the pool to prevent the spread of infection. Consult a veterinarian for the best course of action.
- Water Intoxication: All dogs are different, but some may drink excessive amounts of water if given the opportunity. If a homeowner knows their dog loves drinking water, they may be at risk of water intoxication in the pool.
Dog-Friendly Features for Enhanced Pool Safety
Apart from the inherent durability of vinyl, there are a number of accessories and adaptations that can be made to enhance pool safety and confidence for pets:
- Swim Booties: These keep the water and hot surfaces off pets' paws and create a barrier layer between nails and the pool liner.
- Doggie Life Vests: Buoyancy from life vests minimizes panic and enables pets to feel much safer in the water.
- Dog Pool Steps: For any pool without a gradual egress, homeowners could include detachable step ladders or dog pool ramps that enable easy pet access. Vinyl is the only pool type that allows for an easy addition of steps after installation.
- Pool Design: When installing an inground pool, consider designing with pets in mind. Key features like tanning ledges or gradual egresses with steps can provide added comfort and convenience for pets. The versatility of vinyl pools means you can explore unlimited pool design options that perfectly meet the needs of you and your furry friends!
Explore Pet-Friendly Pool Options
Vinyl pool liners offer a durable and dog-friendly choice for pool owners who love sharing water time with their four-legged friends. Such resilience against pets at play gives homeowners assurance to let them stay in the water.
It is always a good idea to consult professionals about vinyl options for a pet-friendly pool environment. Be it a small pet, big pet, or in-between, vinyl liners are trustworthy solutions that keep both the pets and pool owners happy.
About CFFA
The Chemical Fabrics & Film Association Inc. (CFFA) is an international trade association representing manufacturers of polymer-based fabric and film products used in industries like building and construction, contract upholstery, automotive, healthcare, and many others.
The CFFA is organized by end-use markets, and the members of CFFA who belong to the Performance Products Division manufacture chemical fabrics and film used in numerous applications–just one of which is vinyl pool liners. Industries across the globe rely on these certified polymer-based products for their durability, versatility, and lasting value to make an array of products better.
This content was produced by the Vinyl Pool Liner Subcommittee of the CFFA to educate consumers on vinyl liner pools, inform industry standards, and distribute credible and accurate information regarding certified vinyl products. Click here to learn more about CFFA-P-101 certified vinyl pool liners.
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