SALTDEAN Lido was full of paddling paws again this weekend in the first of three events for man's best friend.
The annual dog swim is being held across numerous sessions over three weekends this year – with additional sessions added to meet demand.
Dog breeds great and small were able to cool off in the main pool, enjoy a slide into the paddling pool and chase water jets in the wet play area on an unusually warm autumnal weekend.
Nellie, an eight-year-old chocolate Labrador, attended the event with her owner Jennifer Davies.
Jenifer says Nellie, who only has three legs after losing one to cancer, enjoyed the event just as much as her four-legged friends.
Golden retriever Charlie had a splashing time celebrating his seventh birthday at the Lido.
His owner Laura Wood said he “absolutely loved it”.
Lexi, a Pomeranian and Yorkshire terrier cross breed took part in the annual dog swim for the first time on Saturday.
She attended with her best friend Bambi, a Jack Russell and poodle cross breed.
Their owner Emmie Stevens said: “This was Lexi’s first time, but we have been with Bambi every year – it’s her favourite event.
“Lexi did have a lovely time but really, she just comes for the doggy ice-cream.”
Dani Bear said she loved watching her 16-month-old beagle Loki frolic around in the pool.
She said: “Everyone was smiling, chatting and having a good time. The dogs could run free and try something new and exciting.
“I’m really grateful to all the lovely staff for arranging such a happy event.”
Chelsea Eaton took her golden Labrador Marley along for his second visit to the Lido.
She said: “Marley absolutely loves the doggy swims, and we cannot wait to come back. It’s such a great event and organised so well.”
For German shepherd puppy Brody, the event was the perfect opportunity for him to try his paw at swimming for the first time.
His owner Natasha Sharma-Cuthbert said: “He loved the paddling pool and making friends with another Brody and trying to steal his ball.
“But Brody decided the best thing do was hitch a ride on his friend in the main pool.
“We’re booking to go again this weekend as it was so great.”
There are four 90-minute sessions on each dog swim day.
The timetable for this weekend will be: Saturday, September 25 – 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Sunday, September 26 – 10am, noon, 2pm and 4pm.
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