Dogs can benefit from swimming in all of the same ways that humans can: they can experience health benefits, stress relief, and the advantages of social interaction through swimming. As a place that is dog-friendly and warm for a large part of the year, Atlanta offers many locations, both natural and man-made, where dogs can enjoy a nice swim. In this blog post, Critter Sitters, a pet sitting company inAtlanta, will provide information about places where you can take your dog swimming in the Atlanta area, as well as some tips on how you and your dog can make the most of your experience.
Pools for Dogs in the Atlanta Area
If you want to take your dog swimming, you can take them to an aquatic center designed especially for them. The following is a list of dog-friendly pools and water parks in the Atlanta area.
- Dog Days Atlanta Swim Club – Dog Days Atlanta Swim Club is Atlanta’s first swim club just for dogs! Their pools use a special ionizer that kills bacteria on your dog’s fur and body without exposing them to harsh chemicals.
- Atlanta Dog Paddle – This is a healing and fitness center for dogs that offers a fiberglass swim spa kept at a temperature and pH level that is best suited for your dog’s health.
- Piedmont Park’s Splish Splash Doggie Bash – During this unique event, Piedmont Park Conservancy opens its pool to more than 500 dogs. Piedmont is also known for its exceptional Atlanta dog parks, which are great for taking your dog to dry off when they’re done swimming for the day.
- Wag-n-Swim – Wag-n-Swim is an aquatic wellness center for pets. In addition to swim therapy, they offer acupuncture, reiki, massages, and other holistic remedies for dogs.
- Pet Lodge Pet Resort – This dog boarding resort features a bone-shaped dog pool and a splash pad for dogs.
Lakes, Rivers, and Streams for Dogs in the Atlanta Area
Some of the best places for dogs to enjoy a swim are the ones that can be found in nature! The list below contains the Atlanta area’s best lakes, rivers, and streams for dogs to swim.
- Murphey Candler Park – This 135-acre park features a lake with a beach that is perfect for dogs to enjoy.
- Morningside Nature Preserve Trail – Known as “Atlanta’s unofficial dog beach,” this nature preserve encourages dogs of all sizes and breeds to relax on its shores.
- Cochran Mill Park – This park is ideal for dogs that enjoy hiking and taking a break to splash in a stream.
- East Palisades Trail at the Chattahoochee River – Dogs and humans can swim together in this river while enjoying the surrounding scenery during a hike.
- Red Top Mountain State Park – This state park offers secluded beaches where dogs and their owners can enjoy a serene aquatic experience.
Ways That Dogs Can Benefit from Swimming
The are many health benefits of swimming for dogs. On the most basic level, swimming is a great way to cool your dog off on a hot day. Swimming is also a great form of exercise for your dog, and it can keep them in shape and prevent health issues later in their lives; it can also tire them out, which can prevent the issues that arise when they have an overabundance of energy.
Other health benefits of swimming for dogs include the loosening of tight muscles, decreased swelling, reduction of symptoms of arthritis, prevention of dysplasia and other mobility issues, alleviation of chronic pain, weight management, and a boost in recovery time following surgery.
Swimming is also beneficial for dogs because, depending on where you’re swimming, it can provide a chance to spend time with other dogs. If you take your dog to a pool, it’s likely that there will be other dogs there for your dog to play with. Social stimulation is important to the overall health of a dog.
Tips for Taking Your Dog Swimming
Swimming comes naturally to most dogs, but that doesn’t mean that safety precautions shouldn’t still be taken. Below are some tips you can follow to make sure that your dog’s swimming experience is as safe and fun as possible.
- Take it slow – If your dog is not familiar with water, allow them to ease into it. Let them become accustomed to the water at their own pace. This will allow them to begin a healthy relationship with water for the remainder of their lives. And if you doubt whether your dog will adapt quickly to the water, it’s a good idea to bring a life jacket or flotation device for them, just in case.
- Dry them when they’re done – When you get out of the water, make sure that you dry your dog’s ears. Stagnant water in their ears can lead to ear infections. Also, make sure to dry their fur, since wet fur can make your dog prone to hot spots and similar skin issues.
- Bring water to drink – Whether your dog is swimming in a pool or a natural body of water, chances are good that the water is fine to swim in but not to drink. Bring fresh water for your dog so they’re not tempted to drink the water they’re swimming in.
Dog Walking Services from an Atlanta Pet Sitting Company
Taking your dog swimming is a great way for your dog to stay in shape and interact with other dogs. It’s also a great way for both you and your dog to relax and enjoy a warm day. While time spent with your dog is important, our Atlanta long term dog sitters understand that there are times when daily life keeps you away from home for a long time. When you’re unable to get home to take care of your dog, know that you can depend on Atlanta dog sitting company Critter Sitters to provide your dog with the care it needs. Call (404) 793-6178 for more information about Critter Sitter’s pet sitting services.
