There Are 8 Events Around NoVA Dedicated to Watching Dogs Swim

Have Fido join in on these swim celebrations, many of which involve games of fetch in surprisingly fancy pools.

By Michele Kettner • Posted August 24, 2021 at 12:11 p.m.

As the dog days come to an end, it’s time to get in those last days of summer fun before the fall season sets in. If you’re looking to get in some seasonal fun with your dog (or just want to watch the cuteness), consider joining one of these doggy swim celebrations to close out summer.

Soggy Doggy Swim

September 10, noon-8 p.m.
Open to all pups 12 weeks and older, dogs of all ages will enjoy some splash time at this huge pool. Half of the proceeds from the event will be donated to the Fredericksburg SPCA. Doris E. Buffett Pool: 1300 Dixon St., Fredericksburg $5 for up to two dogs

Lovettsville Community Center Dog Swim

September 11, 9-11 a.m.
Open to all dog lovers, head over to Lovettsville for your pup’s pooltime. Bring along your tennis balls, frisbees, and other water toys for a morning full of play. Lovettsville Community Center: 57 E. Broad Way, Lovettsville; $5 per dog

Dog Daze at the Water Mine

September 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Watch out humans, this water park is open to the dogs. Plus, all fees will be donated to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter. Lake Fairfax Park: 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr., Reston; $10 donation suggested

Dog Swim

September 11, 9-10:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Enjoy a day under the sun at this premium pool and aquatic center. Handlers are asked to bring their own water dish and will be limited to two dogs in attendance. AV Symington Aquatic Center: 80 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg; $5

Dog’s Day Pool Party

September 11, 1-4 p.m.
Once your pooch wakes up from its mid-morning nap, take a trip to this Warrenton pool party. Bring along your favorite balls and water toys for an afternoon of swimming, fetch, and water fun. Larry Weeks Community Pool: 4248 Bludau Dr., Warrenton; $7

Stonewall Pool Dog-A-Pool-ooza

September 10, 4-7 p.m.
Close out the hottest days of summer with this puppy palooza. As your dog enjoys one last day of play, know your donation will help the animals of the City of Manassas Animal Shelter. 8351 Stonewall Rd., Manassas; $5 per dog

Franklin Park Dog Swim

September 12, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. & 1-2:30 p.m.
Plan a day out with your four-legged friend. Make a stop at the pool to lounge while your dog enjoys some splash time, then dry off and head to the Loudoun Pet Expo for more dog-gone fun. Franklin Park: 17501 Franklin Park Dr., Purcellville; $5

Dog Swim

September 18 & 19, times vary
Cool off at one of the Alexandria pools right before we say goodbye to summer. Owners and guests five and older will be required to wear a face covering. Warwick Pool: 3301 Landover St., Alexandria; Old Town Pool: 1609 Cameron St., Alexandria; free

For more ways to spend time with your pooch, subscribe to our Pets newsletter.

Michele Kettner

Audience Engagement Editor

Michele Kettner joined Northern Virginia Magazine in 2020 after spending two semesters as an editorial intern at the magazine. The University of Maryland graduate is currently the audience engagement editor and covers everything from can’t-miss things to do and holiday events to new restaurant and store openings throughout Northern Virginia.