A. It’s difficult to know without seeing the squirrel or knowing how long it was in the pool. The fact that it isn’t moving, that it’s just laying on the grass, leads me to think that this squirrel needs help. If you are able to, loosely wrap the squirrel in a soft towel and place it in a box. If it is cold you could provide a heat source, like warm water in a plastic bottle wrapped in a cloth. Don’t give it anything to eat or drink and call your local wildlife rehabilitation centre for advice.
Once squirrels fall into a pool it can be difficult for them to get out, depending on the pool features. To help prevent this in the future, some people have secured knotted nylon ropes to various locations around their pool edge. With a knot at the surface of the water, squirrels and other small animals can use this to help get themselves out. You can also use rubber car mats or door mats. Make sure they’re well secured to the edge of the pool, with some of the mat hanging into the water There are also products that can be bought that are designed specifically for this purpose.
If, however, you notice a squirrel swimming in your pool, you can help get it out. Using something with a long pole or handle like a pool skimmer or net usually works well. Don’t try to handle the squirrel directly as it could be frightened.
