What are some dog-friendly places for swimming around Flagstaff?

There are several dog-friendly swimming spots around Flagstaff, including Upper Lake Mary, Oak Creek, Ashurst Lake, Kinnikinick Lake, and various seasonal creeks such as Pumphouse Wash and Kelly Canyon.

Can dogs swim at Upper Lake Mary in Flagstaff?

Upper Lake Mary is popular because it is located close to downtown Flagstaff and offers plenty of space for dogs to swim and play. However, due to its popularity with boaters and fishermen, it's important to keep a close eye on your dog near the water.

Is it okay for dogs to swim in lakes and creeks in Northern Arizona?

Before letting your dog swim in natural bodies of water, you should ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations, dewormers, and other medications. Common concerns include Giardia, Leptospirosis, blue-green algae, and skin infections or irritations. It’s also a good idea to check for any warnings about toxic algae or other potential hazards in the water.

Can dogs get Giardia from swimming?

Giardia is a microscopic parasite found in untreated water. Dogs can ingest Giardia by drinking contaminated water or licking their fur after swimming, leading to gastrointestinal issues. Ensuring your dog is up-to-date on dewormers can help mitigate this risk.

Can you take dogs swimming in Oak Creek?

While Oak Creek offers great spots for dog swimming, some areas of the creek have strong currents. It is important to choose calm spots for your dog to enter the water safely.

5 Places to Take Your Dog Swimming Around Flagstaff - Continental Animal Wellness Center

As summer winds down in Flagstaff, there’s still time to enjoy the warm weather with your pups! What better way to beat the heat than by taking your dog swimming? Flagstaff is surrounded by dog-friendly lakes and creeks that offer refreshing spots for your pup to cool off. Here are five of the top spots in the area!

1) Upper Lake Mary

Upper Lake Mary is one of the most popular spots for both humans and dogs to swim around Flagstaff. Located just a short drive from downtown Flagstaff, this lake offers plenty of space for your dog to splash around. Keep in mind that the lake is popular with boaters and fishermen, so be sure to keep an eye on your dog when they’re near the water.

2) Oak Creek

Nestled in the scenic Oak Creek Canyon just a short drive from Flagstaff, Oak Creek is another fantastic spot for dog swimming. There are several spots along the creek where your dog can safely enter the water. However, the creek can have strong currents in some areas, so it’s important to choose a calm spot for swimming.

3) Ashurst Lake

two dogs swimming in a lake together with water toys

Ashurst Lake, located southeast of Flagstaff, is a quiet and peaceful spot perfect for a day of fun with your dog. The water here is usually calm, and the lake is less crowded than Upper Lake Mary, making it ideal for dogs that might be nervous around large groups.

4) Kinnikinick Lake

three labs playing and swimming in a lake

Kinnikinick Lake is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s well worth the drive if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to take your dog swimming. The water is clear, and the lake is typically less busy than other spots around Flagstaff.

5) Seasonal Creeks

Flagstaff is home to several seasonal creeks that can provide a refreshing spot for your dog to swim, especially in the spring and during the monsoon season. Pumphouse Wash in Kachina Village and Kelly Canyon can have seasonal water, but we recommend checking the water levels before heading out, as they can vary depending on the time of year and recent rainfall.

Things to Consider Before Taking Your Dog Swimming

dog and human high-fiving in front of lake

Check for Warnings

Before heading out, always check for any warnings about toxic algae or other potential hazards in the water. Some lakes and creeks can develop harmful algae blooms, especially during warmer months, which can be dangerous for your dog.

Make Sure Your Dog is Up-to-Date on Medications

It’s vital that you double-check that your dog is up-to-date on their dewormers and other medications before letting them swim in any natural bodies of water.

Common concerns include:

Giardia

This microscopic parasite can be found in untreated water. Dogs can easily ingest giardia by drinking contaminated water or even by licking their fur after swimming.

Leptospirosis

This bacterial infection can be transmitted through the urine of infected animals, which contaminates water or soil. Dogs that swim in or drink from contaminated water are at risk of contracting leptospirosis. Vaccination against leptospirosis is available and recommended, especially if your dog frequently swims in natural bodies of water.

Blue-green algae or cyanobacteria

During warm months, certain lakes and ponds may develop harmful algae blooms. These blooms can produce toxins that are highly dangerous to dogs.

Skin infections or irritations

Cuts or scrapes can become infected more easily when exposed to dirty water, leading to more serious conditions that require veterinary attention.

Also, flea/tick preventatives and heartworm prevention are particularly important before going around water sources. Mosquitoes are a big problem around standing water, and they carry heartworm.

Schedule a Check-Up or Order Dewormers through Our Vet Pharmacy

By keeping your dog up-to-date on vaccinations, dewormers, and other preventive medications, you can help safeguard their health against these potential risks. Regular vet check-ups are also a good idea to monitor for any signs of infection or illness after spending time in natural water.

At Continental Animal Wellness Center, we offer a full range of services, including an online vet pharmacy where you can order dewormers and other necessary medications. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment with our Flagstaff vet or to learn more about how we can help keep your dog healthy and happy.

GET IN TOUCH

ONLINE VET PHARMACY