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While many dogs enjoy swimming, some are either not capable of it (such as bulldogs, who tend to sink) or not interested.

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And even dogs who love the water can drown if trapped in a swimming pool or allowed to swim beyond the measures of their physical capabilities.

It's up to pet owners to keep at-risk pets away from swimming pools and to protect others from getting in over their heads.

Fortunately, there are a couple of products available to make this task easier.

While all pools should ideally be surrounded by a secure fence - that's required by law in many areas - you can add another layer of protection with the Safety Turtle.

The product attaches to a pet's collar and triggers an alarm in the house if the pet falls in the pool. The Safety Turtle has a suggested retail price of $267 US and is available through retail stores and catalogs, or from the manufacturer at www.safetyturtle.com or 1-800-368-8121.

The Skamper-Ramp provides a way out for any animal who falls into the pool - even frogs! The company has added a larger ramp in addition to the original, and notes that the product also can be used to help pets out of the water and into boats or onto docks. Skamper-Ramps retail for $40 to $100. For more information visit www.skamper-ramp.com or call 1-877- POOLPET.

You just can't play too safe when it comes to protecting your pet around the pool.

- Gina Spadafori