Summer swimming holes in Columbus for Dogs

Some towns are starting to not only open off-leash dog parks but also some have good old-fashioned swimming holes for your dogs

by Nadya Bennett

When signs of summer start to appear, most of us begin to think about warm days, cool nights, vacations, and of course, swimming pools and beaches. There is nothing like lounging in cool, relaxing water on a hot day.

Well, your canine friend feels that heat just as much as we do and may love to take a dip!  The question becomes – where can I take my dog to swim that is not only clean but safe as well.  Some towns are starting to not only open off-leash dog parks but also some have good old-fashioned swimming holes for your dogs to romp around in. We’ve researched for you and have found a few places that the pooches (and their humans) seem to like the best.  Each park will have its own set of rules, so please make sure you know them and follow them as required.

Public dog parks with swimming areas (no fee required)

Prairie Oaks MetroPark

– Darby Bends Lake area (Plain City) – This Franklin County MetroPark has an unfenced dog swimming area with lake access. Visit their website at http://www.metroparks.net/ParksPrairieOaks.aspx.

Ohio State Parks

Alum Creek Dog Park (Lewis Center) – A 4-acre free public dog park that includes fully fenced areas for small & large dogs and a dog beach at the lake. All areas have shade trees and benches. Drinking water is provided seasonally.  It is a free park that is open 7 days a week from dawn to dusk except during the Alum Creek Fantasy of Lights (Nov – Dec), when it closes at 4 pm.

Pizzurro Park

Pooch Playground (Columbus) – A 4-acre fenced area where dogs may run off-leash.  It contains a separate fenced area for small dogs 25 pounds or less and an agility area for all dogs.  Dogs are also permitted to swim in the creek that runs along the park.  Although this area isn’t fenced, your swimming dog can have a great time here.  They share this area with people who like to fish, so watch out for stray lines and hooks. It is a free park that is open 7 days a week from dawn to dusk.  It is operated and maintained by the Gahanna Parks and Recreation Department.

See also  Safety Tips For Winter Travel With A Dog

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Welcome to Spike’s Dog Blog by Acme Canine. Throughout the site, you will find a variety of helpful dog training articles, insightful dog behavior tips, and truthful product reviews from nationally-recognized canine trainers and professionals.

Nadya Bennett

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