Rona Wrote
In Usenet, readers can only go by the information provided by each poster.
My opinion is based on the information you provided.

I understand

Google search brings up useful information such as
http://www.petplace.com/Articles/artShow.asp?artID=2736

That link does not seem to be working at the moment but I will check it out
later.

No method is foolproof, of course, but the options (such as
removable fencing, pool alarms, and pool covers) at least minimize the risks
involved with pools. But your focus (from what you have written) is
convenience and looks, not the safety of your animals. Your interest in
safety (from what you have written) comes third.
As I said, options are available. You chose to have a pool and pets and you
should have investigated the safety hazards *before* even considering a pool.
That you didn't, imo, is far more disgusting than anything I have said.

Alarms would not do any good if I'm not home as happened. In any case I
installed the pool for its convenience long before this stray cat and her
unborn kitten came looking for a home. I guess she picked the wrong home. I did
however treat her very well and made her feel welcome. From what I hear and
observe, I treat my cats far better than many, if not most, pet owners. Till
now it never occured to me that a streetwise cat could fall into the pool and
drown. The very first day this cat came into my yard she could have fallen into
the pool. Do I need to cover, fence and alarm my pool for any animal that may
venture into my yard?

If a person had drowned in your pool, what would you be doing now to prevent
a "next time"?

My yard is fenced in as required by law. Other than myself and my wife just
about no one else uses the pool.

Tom