Pune's Pet Pools Experience Summer Booking Boom
Throughout the summer months, Abhijeet Jadhav, a lawyer based in Pune, frequently spends his weekends poolside. He watches with amusement as his two Labrador Retrievers, Marco, aged 7, and Polo, aged 10, enthusiastically explore the water. Jadhav brings them to specialized pet pools every couple of weeks during the hot season.
"Once they're in the pool, the two mostly spend their time chasing a ball across the water. They absolutely love it. Labradors and Golden Retrievers are natural swimmers. So, it's hard to get them to come out," he laughs, describing the joyful scene.
Seasonal Activity Gains Popularity
Across the few dedicated pet pools in Pune, swim sessions for dogs have transformed into a highly anticipated seasonal activity. As soon as the temperature begins to climb, bookings at these facilities skyrocket. Weekends often evolve into small social gatherings, with friends bringing their pets together for shared swimming experiences.
At Wagtime Dog Swimming and Spa located in Aundh, the summer rush is in full swing. "Summer is our busiest time. We're currently fully booked till the next weekend," states Gargi Dabholkar, the manager. She explains that a standard swimming session is typically reserved for a single dog, though pet parents also have the option to book group sessions.
Facilities Cater to Canine Comfort
Derek Demitrius, owner of Pune Pet Park in Lohegaon, highlights that their large pool can accommodate 15 to 20 dogs simultaneously. "We run dedicated sessions as well as shared two-hour swimming slots where multiple dogs are in the pool at the same time. The idea is simple: keep the pets happy while giving them a safe way to cool off," Demitrius emphasizes.
On any given afternoon, the atmosphere at these pools is a vibrant mix of confident dives and hesitant first steps. Labradors often leap straight into the water, while more cautious Indian breeds might test the water slowly. Regardless of approach, as the summer heat intensifies, Pune's pet dogs are certainly making a splash.
Essential Tips for Pet Pool Safety
Experienced pet owners and facility managers offer crucial advice for ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for dogs:
- Start Slow: Allow your dog to enter the water gradually to build confidence.
- Wet Them First: Spray or rinse your dog before they enter the pool to help them adjust to the temperature.
- Keep Sessions Short: Dogs typically swim in short bursts; most do not swim for more than 20 minutes, with even energetic breeds usually stopping by the 40-minute mark.
- Bring Toys: Floating toys like tennis balls, frisbees, rubber rings, hoops, and squeaky toys encourage play and exercise.
- Stay Nearby: Always maintain close supervision to ensure your dog's comfort and safety.
- Avoid Peak Heat: Opt for morning or evening slots to prevent overheating.
- Dry Them Well: Thoroughly dry your dog's ears and paws after swimming to prevent infections.
Abhijeet Jadhav shares his personal routine: "I usually spray my dogs with water first so they can adjust to the temperature. You have to keep a close eye on them the whole time to make sure they're comfortable."
Cost Considerations and Community Impact
The cost for these canine swim sessions typically ranges from Rs 600 to Rs 1,000, depending on factors such as the type of session, membership status, and any additional add-ons. This seasonal activity not only provides physical relief from the heat but also fosters a sense of community among pet owners in Pune, turning weekend swims into happy social outings for both pets and their parents.
