FAQs

Where are you based?

Doggy Paddle Norwich, 5 Alston Road, Hellesdon Park Industrial Estate, NR6 5DS.

When you enter the industrial estate you will need to follow Hellesdon Park Road towards the back of the estate until you see a left-hand turn for Alston Road, this is front of John e Wright. You will then need to follow Alston Road around the corner passed DHL on the left until you see our A-Board sign and then turn left between Harrisons Testing and AutoHaus.

Following Google Maps will bring you direct to our door, find directions here

How do you clean the water without high levels of chlorine?

Firstly, as we allow humans in the water too, we are classed as a commercial pool, and as such have some very strict rules/regulations to follow from the Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group (PWTAG).

We are legally required to have a qualified Pool Technical Operator on staff who ensures all pool equipment is operating effectively, and ensure the water chemistry is maintained at a safe level.

Our water is tested every two hours in house, to ensure the disinfectant, and pH levels in the water are operating at safe levels.

Additionally, a sample of the water is also sent to an independent UKAS lab once a month, to ensure there are no traces of bacteria within the water.

We use two methods of disinfection for our pool water.

Our primary method uses the process of electrolysis which introduces charged copper, silver and zinc ions into the water, which break down bacteria, viruses and dirt. This method is natural / chemical-free, has been used for centuries and is typically how drinking water is cleaned.

This allows us to keep our pool disinfectant (bromine) at a much lower dose than traditional swimming pools, so that water is more comfortable for fur, skin & eyes.

We then have a heavy duty pool pump and filter, which circulate the water and traps any dirt (or hair!), before returning fresher water to the pool.

All of this allows us to keep our water clean and clear, without excessive chemicals, which makes it safer for fur, skin & eyes

Can I book multiple dogs for a leisure swim?

Hydrotherapy and fun and fitness swims are for one dog, but it may be possible to share sessions with dogs from the same household.

Will I be able to swim with my dogs?

For the hydrotherapy, fun & fitness sessions, and puppy swims, discuss with the hydrotherapist if you feel there is a need.

Is the pool step free?

We have a ramp leading up to the side of the pool and a secondary ramp leading into the pool, however, the incline on these are unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs.

Are life jackets available?

Yes, canine swim jackets are available on-site in all sizes.
All dogs entering the water must wear them, unless under the direct supervision of a hydrotherapist.

How young do you take puppies?

We take puppies from five months - unless there is a medical need for them to start sooner.

Do I need a vet referral?

Vet consent is required for hydrotherapy, fun and fitness swims, and puppy swims. This is because these sessions are individualised in order to provide the best level of support and vary according to the dog's physical condition, breed, behaviour and age. For this reason prior to your first booking we are required to contact your registered vet to obtain a brief medical history, and confirm that the dog is in a suitable state of health to swim.

Can children enter the water?

Unfortunately no, only adults over the age of 16 can enter the water. Children can watch from poolside providing a supervising adult is present, please be aware that any spectators are also likely to get wet, and the poolside can be slippery.

What should I wear in the water?

Our water is heated so you will not need to wear a wet suit, but we do recommend you wear a t-shirt and either shorts/leggings to protect yourself from dogs claws.

Can dogs on the banned breed list swim?

Our hydrotherapy insurance does cover dog's on the banned breed list providing the following conditions are met:

Hold a valid exemption certificate
Provide a copy of the liability insurance
Dogs are neutered
Dogs are microchipped
Dogs are muzzled and on a short lead when entering and exiting the centre
Dogs are not required to be muzzled once inside the centre, providing the owner and therapist are happy with their temperament.

This means dogs on the banned breed list are able to attend Hydrotherapy sessions, Therapist-led Fun & Fitness and Puppy swims.

Unfortunately our general centre insurance does not cover banned breeds, so they will be unable to attend pool-hire sessions.

Can my dog try before I commit to sessions?

Unfortunately no. We need to receive a signed vet consent form for all dogs entering the pool, so they are unable to enter the pool enclosure until we have received this. The session cost covers the time taken for us to send and receive this.

We work with a lot of nervous dogs, and we take all introductions at the dog's pace. We focus on positive associations with the water, and use encouragement, toys and some treats to introduce to the water for the first time.