The annual doggy swim event will be held at Waltham Pool on Sunday 29 March, from 9am to 4:30pm.

Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events Nigel Cox says the pool parties are always a hit and continue to grow in their popularity year on year.

“These events are a great way to mark the end of summer, and we know it’s a much-loved day out for the whole family.”

“Last year we had a record 700-plus dogs take the plunge, and from the sounds of things, it’s shaping up to be another huge day this year,” Mr Cox says.  

Sponsored by Pet Central, the session times depend on your pooch’s size. Small dogs (up to 46cm) can jump in between 9 and 10.30am, medium dogs (46 – 64cm) from 11am to 12.30pm, large dogs (over 64cm) from 1 to 2.30pm, and an open session with no size limit will be from 3 to 4.30pm. 

Mr Cox says it’s recommended dog’s attend the session best suited to their size. 

“There’s a couple of other rules to make sure the weekend runs smoothly – no humans are allowed in the pool and there must only be one pooch per owner.”

Dogs must be vaccinated and well-behaved with other canines.

Free microchipping will also be offered on site at the event to any Christchurch registered dogs.

This event is run in association with the Christchurch City Council Animal Management Team.

After the events, the pools will be emptied and cleaned for their winter shut down.

Find out more about the event through the What’s On listing here.