The annual Grosvenor Dog Swim is back, offering dog owners a unique chance to bring their furry friends to the Grosvenor Outdoor Pool for a fun-filled swim while supporting a good cause.
Taking place on Sept. 1 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., the event invites attendees to enjoy a splash of fun with their pets, all while raising funds for Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS).
Organized by the City of St. Albert, the event is a community favourite, encouraging participants to bring a monetary donation or gently used pet-related items as admission. All proceeds will go directly to SCARS, an organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for animals in need.
Amanda Annetts, Intake Coordinator at SCARS, explains why the event is so crucial for the organization.
“Right now, SCARS is at a critical level of capacity,” she said. “We have more animals coming in than we can send out, and events like this help us cover the medical bills, emergency care, and supplies for the animals we rescue.”
This year, the event will once again be sponsored by Cami Comfort Homes, who will add extra excitement with an activation on deck, handing out treats and swag for both dogs and their owners. Additionally, Heavenly Dog Treats, a local food truck, will be on-site with a selection of tasty treats for pups to enjoy before or after their swim. Donations from the Grosvenor Dog Swim will go directly toward supporting SCARS' mission, with specific needs like kitty pellet litter, wet kitten food, and dog kibble. Every contribution, big or small, helps keep the organization running.
For many dog owners, the Grosvenor Dog Swim is a highlight of the year. It’s an opportunity to spend quality time with their pets while watching them enjoy the water. The event is open to dogs of all sizes, but there are some important rules to ensure everyone’s safety:
- Dogs must be able to enter and exit the pool on their own (or with minimal help).
- Owners are responsible for supervising their pets in the water.
- Only dogs are allowed in the pool, and they should not drink from it—fresh water bowls will be available.
- All dogs must have up-to-date vaccinations.
- Entry is through the back gate and is by donation, either monetary or pet-related items.
“We want to make sure everyone is safe and has a great time,” said Maurizio Giordano, Supervisor of Special Events for the City of St. Albert.
The Grosvenor Dog Swim also provides a chance for attendees to give their input on future projects, such as the Northwest Dog Park Project. Giordano encourages people to share their thoughts during the event, further enhancing the sense of community involvement.
For Annetts, events like this are essential.
“With so many animals in our care, we rely heavily on donations to cover medical costs, supplies, and emergency care,” Annetts said. “Every donation from the Grosvenor Dog Swim helps us continue our mission to provide care for animals in need.”
Even if you can’t attend the event, there are other ways to support SCARS. Monetary donations are always welcome, and anyone interested in fostering a pet can make a huge difference.
“Opening your home to a foster animal is one of the best ways to help,” Annetts said. “This is our favourite event of the year and it gives us the space to rescue more animals in need.”
The pool will be closed for regular public swimming on the day of the event, with the last public swim scheduled for Aug. 31.
