Dogs, owners take dip in pool for annual ‘Dog Swim Day’

By April Rogers and Fernie Ortiz

Before putting away their swim suits for the year, dog owners like John McBride were able to take a dip with their best friend at the Nations Tobin Aquatic Center on Saturday.

This is the first year McBride and his dog Raven participated in the annual “Dog Swim Day.”

“Any chance I get to get her in the water I take it because she absolutely loves it,” said McBride, who from the looks of it plans on returning next year.
Dozens of dogs were brought out to the pool on Saturday. Some of the dogs merely dipped their paws in the water, while others jumped right in and swam laps with their owners.

For fellow dog owner Chris Glascott and his Golden Retriever, this was their second time around.

Glascott said he is originally from central Virginia where there are a lot of lakes and rivers.

“She was used to being in the water and she misses it,” he said about his Golden Retreiver.

Dog owners will get a second chance to bring their pups to the pool from 10 a.m to 2 p.m Sunday to enjoy the last dog days of summer.

If you don’t have a pooch, the Animal Rescue League, El Paso Humane Society and PAWS will have pets available for adoption. Within 20 to 30 minutes new pet owners can enjoy the pool with everyone else. Admission is $2 per dog (owners swim for free).

Nations Tobin Aquatic Center is located at 8831 Railroad Dr. in Northeast El Paso.