Spokane to offer five ‘Doggie Dips’

The SpokaneParks and Recreation Department is expanding its popular summer ‘Doggie Dips’ from one day to five.

That means that dog owners wanting to let their canine pals go for a completely legal swim in a city pool can visit several different pools this month on five different days.

Since each of the participating pools are scheduled to be closed this year, the city staff decided to offer a special canine swim for two hours at each location.

Dips started Aug. 5 at A.M. Cannon Park, and will continue Aug. 19 at Hillyard and Comstock parks and Aug. 26 at Liberty and Witter parks.

Two sessions are planned at each pool, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for small- and medium-sized dogs, and 7:30-8:30 p.m. for large dogs.

Last public swims at these pools are planned Aug. 16 at Hillyard and Comstock parks and Aug. 23 at Witter and Liberty parks. Adults and kids can swim free from 2-4 p.m.

Dips and the final public swim have already taken place at A.M. Cannon Park pool.

During the Doggie Dips, all dogs must be a leash at all times, and owners must provide proof of vaccinations. Dog and human swimmers will be monitored by volunteers outside the fence and by lifeguards near the pool area. Humans aren’t allowed in the pool during the dog swim.

Owners should also know that chlorine and other disinfecting chemicals will be present in the water.