The City of Toronto is officially wrapping up its outdoor swimming season starting this weekend, and a select number of public outdoor pools will open to local dogs for the annual Dog Swim events.
Held right after human swimming closes for the summer and immediately before the pools are drained and sanitized for the winter, this end-of-summer tradition allows dogs to take a leap into the water free of charge.
If you plan to attend, keep in mind that dogs must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older, with each adult allowed to bring up to two dogs. While the pups get full access to the pool, their humans will need to stay on the deck and keep a close eye on them throughout the swim.
Best of all, no reservations are required. Just show up at one of the participating pools with your dog and proof of rabies vaccination, and you’re good to go!
The free dog swims will take place on September 6 and September 20, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on both dates.
Dog swims on September 6
The following outdoor pools and recreation facilities will host free dog swims on September 6:
- Greenwood Park Outdoor Pool, 150 Greenwood Ave.
- High Park Outdoor Pool, 1873 Bloor St. W.
- Mitchell Field Community Centre, 89 Church Ave.
- Lambton–Kingsway Outdoor Pool, 37 Marquis Ave.
- Monarch Park Outdoor Pool, 115 Felstead Ave.
- North Toronto Memorial Outdoor Pool, 213 Eglinton Ave. W.
- Northwood Community Centre, 15 Clubhouse Crt.
- Rotary Park Outdoor Pool, 25 Eleventh St.
- Stanley Park South, 700 Wellington St. W.
Dog swims on September 20
If you miss the first event, there’s another chance to let your pup take the plunge on September 20 at these locations:
- Fairbank Memorial Community Centre, 2213 Dufferin St.
- Goulding Community Recreation Centre, 45 Goulding Ave.
- Heron Park Community Recreation Centre, 292 Manse Rd.
- Kiwanis Outdoor Pool, 888 Cosburn Ave.
- McGregor Park Community Centre, 2231 Lawrence Ave.
- Riverdale Park East Outdoor Pool, 550 Broadview Ave.
- Sunnyside Gus Ryder Outdoor Pool, 1755 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Keep in mind that admission is first come, first served, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if your dog is eager to claim a spot in the water. Visitors are also encouraged to make pet donations to Toronto Animal Services, and are welcome to bring items like peanut butter, freeze-dried treats, and dog toys to the event. These will be accepted and collected at the participating pools.
