Reston Association, led by CEO Peter Lusk, is turning three community pools over to the dogs.

The annual Dog Paddle series wraps up its 2026 season with swims at Autumnwood Pool on Saturday, Sept. 5, North Hills Pool on Saturday, Sept. 12, and Dogwood Pool on Sunday, Sept. 13. Each session runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. in 75-minute blocks, according to the Reston Association's event calendar. Dogs of all sizes are welcome.

Handlers must be 18 or older and cannot enter the water with their dogs, per health department rules. Registration is required, and handlers need to bring proof of a current dog license and an up-to-date rabies vaccination, Northern Virginia Magazine reported.

The cost is $15 per dog for RA members who register in advance. Day-of registration, if space remains, is $20. Non-members pay $20 regardless of when they sign up.

The Reston Association announced the final dates on its Facebook page on Aug. 27. The organization's website describes the Dog Paddle as part of five swim dates spread across RA pools this summer.

Residents looking for a second dog-friendly option can head to The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole at Lake Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr. The Fairfax County Park Authority facility hosts its annual Dog Daze event on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets are $15 per dog, with proceeds benefiting the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

To register for the RA Dog Paddle events or ask questions, call 703-435-6577 or visit reston.org.

Upcoming Reston community events

• Saturday, Sept. 5 — Dog Paddle at Autumnwood Pool, 8:30 a.m.–3:45 p.m.
• Saturday, Sept. 12 — Dog Paddle at North Hills Pool, 8:30 a.m.–3:45 p.m.
• Saturday, Sept. 12 — Dog Daze at The Water Mine, Lake Fairfax Park, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Sunday, Sept. 13 — Dog Paddle at Dogwood Pool, 8:30 a.m.–3:45 p.m.