While the US Coast Guard mandates that human life jackets are designed primarily for buoyancy in a non-swimming person who is awaiting rescue, there is no such requirement for canine flotation devices.
CPS has signed Western University of Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine as a research partner for this effort. Their 2012 CFD Pilot study identified some serious concerns regarding the flotation efficacy of these products indicating that many CFDs would likely increase the risk of drowning of the companion animal. Center for Pet Safety is also concerned about human safety when water rescue of their pet is concerned. It is critical that the CFD products support the flotation of the companion animal to reduce risk to human rescuers.