150 Golden Retrievers take the plunge for annual dog swim

Saltdean Lido's famous Dog Swim kicked off this morning with 150 golden retrievers who were keen to take the plunge.

More than 2,000 dogs will be taking part in the event which runs for the next two weekends. 

This is the fifth year for the event which is the biggest of its kind in the UK.

Dubbed 'Dogtember' organisers have included a variety of specific sessions, including hour long quiet sessions and the Small Dog Session for dogs that weigh up to 10kgs. 30 Hearing Dogs from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People will also be enjoying themselves.

Jules Shepherd, Saltdean Lido Community Interest Company (SLCIC) Board Member said: “Year on year, our annual - and hugely anticipated - dog swim weekends have seen doggie’ attendance grow exponentially. This year, numbers have continued to rise with over 2,000 furry four-legged friends coming along for fun in the pools from all over the UK.

“All the pups have access to both the main 40-metre pool – which will be heated to around 25 degrees - and, for those less thrill-seeking, the paddling pool - with a slide – and the secure Lido grassy grounds to have a run and playtime in. Of course, our lifeguards will be on duty to help the human swimmers only, with owners having full responsibility for their dogs.”

“After the difficult and unprecedented times we have all been faced with due to the COVID pandemic and associated lockdowns, it’s a real delight to see how much all the dogs and their owners enjoy the dog swim weekends – it’s a truly wonderful way to close the season

“Also, by coming along for a woof-iful time with your four legged friends you’ll not only have a fantastic, fun time, but you’ll also be supporting the Saltdean Lido CIC as all profits from Dogtember will go towards the Saltdean Lido restoration fund to bring back the Grade Two (Star) Art Deco building to its former glory.”