Swimming is for the dogs! (like labs, sheppards and retrievers)

So I get to go to Greenwood Conservation Area each week for some off leash fun with my friends Denali and Starr! As soon as we pull up, our butts are wiggling, and we’re so excited to get out of the truck! Off like a shot, we hit the ground running, down the path, through some bushes, past the marsh, until we hit “the Pit”. We spend a bit of time running around, have some water, then off we go again through the trails to the doggie creek.

Well, I like water as much as the next Manchester...to drink, but when it gets really hot, I don’t mind taking a quick dip to cool off my feet. Well, we meet Labs, Golden Retrievers and other larger breeds who are adept swimmers, having their owners toss Frisbees and tennis balls into the creek and they go belly flopping in after them!

So of course my human thinks it’s “cute”, and thinks I want to have a swim. Uhhh, I don’t think so. But scoop alley-oop into the water I go! Before I know it, I’m dog paddling for dear life to get back to solid ground! And when I do, I get a cookie for a good swim!! WHAT??!! Risk my life and you give me a cookie??!!

Needless to say, I spent the rest of our time there on dry land and running through the weeds. Those Labs set a bad example for us land loving pups!

For pups like me who aren't natural water lovers, the introduction of a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) might make all the difference in the world! I've heard you can go from floating like a rock to freestyle champ with one! You should always look for the amount of floatation in each device, the fit and quality of material before purchasing. This doesn't mean your dog shouldn't still be monitored in the water...just like kids, supervision in the pool, lake or creek is invaluable.



Both RuffWear and Dog Paddling Adventures offer PFD's for your pooch.