On Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th October, Sandford Parks Lido is hosting its 3rd annual dog swim. By mid-October it’s the end of the Lido season which means Cheltenham’s glorious outdoor swimming pool will be shutting for swimmers until next spring. However, for the last three years, on the last days of the season, the Lido has opened its doors to our furry, four-legged friends to allow them to enjoy the beautiful grounds and water of the Lido’s facilities.

The day has always been a roaring success, with pet owners lining up around the block to join in the fun. It has proved so popular that you now get allocated a specific time to arrive so the crowds can be contained.

It’s great fun watching all of the dogs thoroughly enjoying themselves

I have been the vet on duty for the last few years and it has been great fun watching all of the many different types and breeds of dogs thoroughly enjoying themselves. For me, the event combines two of my great loves – swimming and pets; so at this time of year I look forward to the day as much as I regret that the Lido season is coming to an end.

If you are considering taking your dog to the Lido I would advise a quick checklist of suitability:

1. Is your dog good in a social environment? There will be a lot of dogs with their owners, so dogs with a nervous or timid disposition may find it bit challenging.

2. Is your dog a natural swimmer? It may not be the best time to discover that your dog is a sinker, not a swimmer! Not all dogs are natural dog-paddlers – some breeds are great in water, such as labradors, spaniels and retrievers, but others may struggle. Bulldogs, pugs, dachshunds and Staffordshire bull terriers are not natural water dogs and, although some do OK, many will find it more challenging.

3. Is your dog young, fit and healthy? If your dog has other health issues or is a bit older and stiffer then think carefully about whether it will cope with the physical exertion of the day. Dogs with heart or respiratory problems or mobility issues may struggle more or find it more difficult getting in and out of the pool. It’s a day for the more outgoing, water-loving, active dog and if the last two years are anything to go by, there are plenty of those!

I look forward to seeing many of you there this month.