Date: Mon, 27 Jun 2016 11:42:29 -0400
From: Patty White
Subject: Dog swimming hole
Greetings,
To the person asking about where they can take their dogs swimming, while I’m hopeful someone else may be be able to give you a more local tip, I do know a place that actually invites dogs to come swim!
There is a dog training facility up near the RTP known as Lap It Up. They are located in an old fitness center and offer all sorts of obedience and agility training. As one might expect, the facility has a pool, but theirs has been modified to include a cemented ‘beach’ on one end that allows you to gradually walk into the water. And, they provide puppy and dog swimming lessons! (Yes, yes, I know, I know, don’t dogs naturally know how to swim? LOL!).
However, by way of example, I have two miniature Schnauzers, one of whom thinks he’s a Labrador Retriever and the other who hides behind my legs cowering while his brother enthusiastically and with wild abandon face dives into our pond. I’m not sure the one will ever be a fan of the water, but he did manage to flail around enough to not drown when I took him for “lessons” because of the gradual and careful introduction our trainer gave him to the whole idea.
I haven’t been there in a while, but if they still offer lessons I believe Lap It Up provides a safe, nurturing environment to help dogs who have a real aversion to water. It’s actually pretty cool to see a bunch of pups who are fearful at first get a grip on paddling their way safely without a major anxiety attack.
Anyways, good luck on the local swimming hole!