About Us


THE FACILITY

Location:
Paws to Swim is situated on 3-1/2 country acres.  We are conveniently located 18 miles west from downtown Richmond.  Approximately 5 miles from Interstate 64, 288 Interchange and the new Short Pump Crossing Mall.

Building Layout:
Plenty of parking is available.  Front office with viewing window.  We also offer a side ramp entrance and exit for those dogs with special physical limitations.  A restroom is available.  Along the building is an exercise area for dogs to unwind and play prior to their swim session.  Or, after swim as most dogs love to do, they can "run-rub-roll" all over the grassy fenced in field.  For those Agility dogs, the second field has some jumps and tunnels for their canine pleasure.

Pools:
 Our 3 indoor heated pools are designed specifically to promote health, fitness and to provide an enjoyable experience for dog and owner.

  1. The Large “Lap PooL" is 24’ long X 13’ wide and 4 ft deep with a ramp for easy access.  This is our main pool used for all activities.
     

  2. The "Training Pool" is 24' long X 8' wide and 3 1/2ft deep. It has easy access ramps for entering and exiting. This training pool has two uses. It is specifically designed for dogs that are unfamiliar with water or dogs that are reluctant to swim. It also converts into a comfortable lap pool as needed.
     

  3. The “Oval PooL", a Paws to Swim exclusive, is maintained at a higher temperature for those dogs that prefer warmer water.  It is a semi-in ground pool, 14’ long X 8’ wide and 2 1/2ft deep.  Dogs who prefer to be “warmer” and “closer” with their owners benefit with this pool.  Your dog is gently placed in the water versus going down a ramp entrance.  As the dog swims the owner remains inches away.  Many of the Toy Breeds and smaller housedogs prefer this pool.  Also, the warmer temperature aids older arthritic dogs and dogs recuperating from surgery.
     

So you can see, each pool offers a different experience because every dog is different, and every dog has different fitness and health needs.

Water Quality:
 The pool water is tested several times a day for quality and filtered through oversized sand filters.  Our pools are designed to be filtered 3 to 4 times more frequently then “people pools”.  Chlorine is used to sanitize the water.  "SEE FAQ - “Do You Use Chlorine”?"

First Swim:

The first visit is to introduce your dog to swimming and you to our facility.  We want to ensure your dog's first swim is safe and enjoyable.  Your dog is first fitted with a flotation vest or a harness.  A long line is attached to lead the dog down the training pool ramp, which has a gradual slope.  The training pool is straight so the dog swims in and swims out with lots of praise and encouragement.  This is repeated until the dog realizes there is nothing to fear and achieves his comfort and confidence level for swimming.  He may then graduate to our large lap pool.  We encourage the owner then to take over swimming your dog by walking topside around the pool while praising your dog to follow and to receive the lower self-swim rate price reduction. 

NOTE:  For very small dogs we have our above ground Oval Pool in which the dog can be placed in the water and swim in a circular motion while owner walks alongside.

After Swim:

A shower and drying off area is available. Please bring your own towels.  (SEE - FAQ "What do I Bring?)

Please note:  As a courtesy to the next client please complete your swimming, showering and drying within your 30 minute or 60 minute swim appointment.  If drying is an important factor to you, please consider the 60 minute swim appointment.