The “end of summer” can be many different days, depending who you’re talking to. For kids, it’s the last day before the first day of school. Officially, this year it ends on Sept. 22. But for owners of water-loving dogs, it’s when the pools close for the season and hold their annual dog swims!
This year, the dog swim day for all five Northern Virginia Regional Parks Authority water parks is this Saturday, Sept. 9. From 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, for just $5, your dog can frolick, dive and doggie-paddle to his or her heart’s content in the cool, blue waters that only human kids got to enjoy all summer.
I prefer the NVRPA dog swims for two main reasons.
One, Chatham is getting older and doesn’t dive anymore. The water parks have step-in, shallow pools and wide, gradual steps that make it easy for her to get in and out.
Second, the parks are huge, meaning there’s no scrum of excited, nervous dogs crushing around a single entry point, which can lead to doggie disagreements. There is plenty of rooms for dogs to run and multiple pools to choose from.
Make sure to download and fill out the waiver before you go, and bring proof of current license and rabies vaccination.
It’s supposed to be spectacular weather on Saturday, get out and enjoy the mid-70s temps while you can!
Two Dog Tales 
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