There's nothing quite like a day at the beach with your canine companion – sand between their paws, the salty breeze in their fur, and endless opportunities for fetch! But before you grab the leash and towels, it's crucial to know where your furry friend is welcome.

Here in Everett, Washington, a fantastic option is Howarth Park Beach. This local gem welcomes Fido, especially at low tide when the expansive sand offers plenty of room for off-leash play. Remember to check tide reports for the best experience and ensure your dog is leashed when re-entering communal areas. While Howarth Park Beach is a great choice, always be mindful of water quality advisories, especially after any nearby construction.

Expanding to Monroe and Redmond, and the surrounding areas, here are some notable spots:

  • Double Bluff Beach (Whidbey Island): While a bit of a drive from Monroe or Redmond, this is often touted as one of Washington's best dog-friendly beaches. It offers two miles of off-leash sandy shoreline, perfect for your pup to run freely. There's even a "doggie shower" for rinsing off sandy paws!
  • Off-Leash Area Edmonds (OLAE): Located just north of Seattle, this popular off-leash beach is a great spot for dogs and their families to socialize. It offers a mix of sand, rocks, and driftwood for an exciting sensory experience.
  • Richmond Beach Saltwater Park (Shoreline): This coastal park, easily accessible from Redmond, offers a seasonal off-leash area for dogs from November 1st to March 15th. While rockier, it provides excellent sniffing opportunities and open water access.
  • Marymoor Park (Redmond - Dog Beaches within the Off-Leash Area): This 40-acre off-leash area is a premier destination for dogs in the Pacific Northwest. Within this vast space, you'll find several dog beaches where your pup can splash and play in Lake Sammamish. It's a fantastic spot for both on-land and in-water fun.
  • Luther Burbank Park (Mercer Island - Dog Beach): This park on Mercer Island also features a designated off-leash area with a dog beach, providing another great option for Redmond-area residents to access Lake Washington. Note that outside of the designated off-leash area, dogs are generally not allowed on public swim areas from May 1 to September 30.

Beyond local spots, how do you find pet-friendly beaches wherever you are?

  • Online Resources are Your Best Friend: Websites like BringFido.com are invaluable. They offer comprehensive directories of pet-friendly locations, complete with reviews from other pet parents, pictures, and often details about leash laws and specific regulations.
  • Local Parks & Recreation Websites: Your city or county's park and recreation department website is an excellent source for official information on designated dog beaches, rules, and any seasonal restrictions. For Monroe, check the City of Monroe's official website for park regulations, as many parks require dogs to be on leash and not in lakes or streams (like Lake Tye Park).
  • Social Media & Local Pet Groups: Join local Facebook groups or online forums for pet parents in your area. These communities often share up-to-date information, personal recommendations, and hidden gems.
  • Look for Signage: When you arrive at a beach, always look for posted signs. These will clearly indicate whether dogs are allowed, if they need to be on-leash, and any other important rules.

Splish-Splash, No Sand Required: Dog-Friendly Splash Pads

For a quick cool-down without the sand and surf, dog-friendly splash pads are a fantastic alternative! These can be harder to come by, as many public splash pads are for human use only.

In the Everett area, while Willis Tucker Splash Pad is a popular spot for families, it explicitly states that dogs are not allowed in the water. This is common for many public splash pads due to health and safety regulations. Similarly, for Monroe and Redmond, most municipal splash pads are for human use.

So, how can your pup enjoy a splash pad experience?

  • Dedicated Dog Parks with Water Features: Some larger, well-equipped dog parks may have dedicated water play areas, sometimes even with small splash pads or sprinklers designed for dogs. Marymoor Park in Redmond, with its extensive off-leash area and dog beaches, often has natural water access that functions like a large splash pad for dogs.
  • DIY Splash Zones: If a public dog splash pad isn't available, you can create your own! A kiddie pool in your backyard, a sprinkler, or even a low-pressure hose can provide endless fun and refreshment for your pup.
  • Special Events: Keep an eye out for community events or dog-specific festivals that might include temporary splash pad setups for pets.

Making a Safe Splash: Essential Pet Swimming Safety Tips

Whether at the beach, a lake, or even your backyard pool, pet swimming safety is paramount. A fun day in the water can quickly turn dangerous if precautions aren't taken.

  • Not All Dogs Are Natural Swimmers: While the "doggie paddle" is famous, not all breeds are built for swimming. Breeds with short snouts (like Bulldogs, Pugs) or short legs (Dachshunds, Corgis) often struggle. Never assume your dog can swim, and introduce them to water gradually in a calm, shallow area.
  • Life Jackets Are Lifesavers: Even for strong swimmers, a well-fitting dog life jacket is highly recommended, especially in open water with currents or if your dog is prone to tiring quickly. A good life jacket will have a handle for easy retrieval.
  • Constant Supervision is Key: Never, ever leave your pet unattended near water. Accidents can happen in a split second, even for experienced swimmers.
  • Teach Exit Points: If you have a pool, show your dog where the steps or a ramp are located so they know how to exit safely. Practice this repeatedly.
  • Beware of Water Intake:
    • Saltwater: Too much saltwater can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and severe dehydration (salt poisoning). Bring plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink.
    • Chlorinated Pool Water: While a little won't harm them, excessive ingestion can cause an upset stomach. Again, offer fresh water.
    • Lakes/Ponds: Stagnant water can harbor harmful bacteria and algae (like blue-green algae, which is highly toxic). Avoid areas with visible algae blooms and always provide fresh drinking water. This is especially important in lakes around Monroe and Redmond during warmer months when algae blooms can be a concern. Always check local health advisories for water quality before letting your dog swim.
  • Rinse and Dry: After any swim, rinse your dog thoroughly with fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, sand, or any potential irritants from their skin and coat. Pay special attention to their ears, especially for floppy-eared breeds, as moisture can lead to ear infections. A gentle ear cleaner with a drying agent can be beneficial.
  • Watch for Fatigue: Swimming is hard work! Keep an eye on your dog for signs of tiredness, such as heavy panting or struggling to keep their head above water. Encourage frequent breaks.
  • Know Your Dog's Limits: If your dog seems stressed, scared, or simply isn't enjoying the water, don't force them. Some dogs just aren't water enthusiasts, and that's perfectly fine!

By following these tips, you and your beloved pet can enjoy countless safe and fun adventures in the water. So get out there, explore those pet-friendly spots, and make some incredible splash-filled memories together!