The dog days of summer have arrived, and they’re about to get more literal in Reston.
As is tradition, Reston Association (RA) is bringing back its annual Dog Paddle series to close out the 2025 aquatics season, which began on May 10 and will conclude on Sept. 21.
The series, which allows dogs to take over RA’s pools for a swim, will kick off Saturday (Aug. 16) with an event at Autumnwood Pool (11950 Walnut Branch Road). While all of the morning time slots for that day are full, there’s still space in the afternoon sessions, as of press time.
Additional dog paddles are scheduled over the next few weeks:
- Sunday, Aug. 17 at Hunters Woods Pool (2501 Reston Parkway)
- Saturday, Aug. 23 at Lake Audubon Pool (2070 Twin Branches Road)
- Saturday, August 30 at Autumnwood Pool
- Saturday, September 6 at North Hills Pool (1325 North Village Road)
Sessions last 75 minutes and are available from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. each day. Advance registration is required and costs $15 for RA members or $20 for non-members.
RA notes that dog handlers must be at least 18 years old, and the event is off limits to puppies younger than 4 months and female dogs in heat. Sessions for small dogs only are available for pets that weigh 30 pounds or less.
A current dog license or proof of rabies vaccination is required.
“Designed for dogs to enjoy a splash in the pool after the regular swim season ends, the Dog Paddle is a tail-wagging tradition that brings together pet lovers from across the community,” RA said in a press release. “Whether your pup is a seasoned swimmer or just wants to get their paws wet with some four-legged friends, the event offers a safe and joyful environment for all breeds and sizes.”
Tomorrow (Friday) will be the last day of the season for the Autumnwood, Glade, Golf Course Island, Lake Audubon, Newbridge and Uplands swimming pools.
RA’s remaining pools will continue operating through Labor Day. After Sept. 1, only the Lake Newport, North Shore and Ridge Heights pools will be open for the final 20 days of the season.
