Hit the water with your dog this spring and summer at these dog-friendly beaches, pools and lakes.
Alexandrians love their pooches and as the weather heats up, leaving them at home seems downright cruel if you know they’d rather be hanging out with their people at the lake, the beach or a pool.
In addition to the end-of-summer swim at several pools in and around Alexandria (look for those after Labor Day weekend), here’s where Fido can cool off in the water.
Safety First
• Don’t assume that all dogs can swim! Before throwing them in the pool or lake, walk them down the stairs (or wade into the water with them) and stay close by until you’re sure they’ll be ok.
• Several companies make doggie flotation devices and life jackets that can prevent your dog from drowning if he gets tired or stuck.
• Beware that some creeks and ponds can have bacteria, resulting in ear infections or digestive issues. It’s a good idea to give your dog a bath after swim-ming and dry out their ears to prevent infections.
• Always check local water quality reports at lakes and beaches for safety before you hit the road. Even if the water is safe, bring fresh water for your dog to drink.
Where to Swim
There are several dog-friendly beaches and lakes with-in a few hours’ drive if you’re up for a day trip! Check online for details about hours, fees and water conditions before you go.
• First Landing State Park Beach, 2500 Shore Dr., Virginia Beach, VA
• Chris Green Lake Park, 4748 Chris Greene Lake Rd., Charlottesville, VA
• Assateague National Seashore, 7206 National Seashore Ln., Berlin, MD
• Metapeake Park Dog Beach, 1112 Romancoke Rd., Stevensville, MD
• Bayfront Park, 7255 Bayside Rd.,Chesapeake Beach, MD
Much closer to home, here are a few dog parks with water access:
• Shirlington Dog Park, 2710 S. Oakland St., Arlington, VA
• Glen Carlyn Dog Park, 301 S. Harrison St., Arlington, VA
• Accotink Bay Wildlife Refuge, Fort Belvoir, VA
• Burke Lake Park, 7315 Ox Lake Rd., Burke, VA
• Bull Run Regional Park, 7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville, VA
Dog Pools
An increasing number of veterinarians are recommending swimming as a rehabilitation exercise for dogs who have gotten injured, had surgery or need to lose a few pounds. Whether for fun, exercise or therapy, here are two places you can take your dog swimming in a heated, indoor pool.
K9 Aquatic Center, 12948 Travlah Road, Potomac, MD, is a swim facility just for dogs. Swim sessions are $48 for 30 minutes, with longer swims for the same price on Fridays and discounts on Wednesdays. Discounts also are available if you buy multiple sessions at once. You can even plan a swim birthday party for your dog and up to five doggie friends. No chlorine or bromine is used in the 85-degree pool. Learn more at k9aquaticcenter.com.
Olde Towne Pet Resort, 8101 Alban Road, Springfield, Va. Swim sessions are $35 at the facility’s 20-foot long heat-ed lap pool. Dogs who need movement therapy or just want to have some water fun are welcome. Learn more at oldetownepetresort.com/activities.
