A Pup Living His Dream
Every morning in Washington, D.C., a brindle pup named Ziggy can hardly contain his excitement. Tail wagging like a metronome, he races Dominique — his mom and business partner — out the door. For Ziggy, the short car ride isn’t just a commute. It’s the beginning of another day at what might be the world’s best job for a dog.
Dominique, an animal lover with a big heart, owns the K9 Aquatic Center, an indoor dog swimming facility she opened nearly a decade ago. Here, dogs of all ages and abilities can splash, swim, and heal in safe, supervised pools. And Ziggy? He’s the official “assistant lifeguard,” greeter, and cheerleader rolled into one.
Ziggy’s Morning Routine
The day always starts the same. After breakfast and a brisk walk through the neighborhood, Ziggy is already eager to get going. Dominique laughs:
“I’m usually too slow for him. The moment we park, he’s at the door, ready to dive in.”
Before the other canine swimmers arrive, Ziggy enjoys his favorite perk — the pool all to himself. Toys, floating balls, squeaky ducks — it’s his personal playground.
More Than Just Fun and Games
But the K9 Aquatic Center is far more than a doggy amusement park. It’s a place of transformation. The warm-water pools provide therapy for senior dogs, recovery support for pups healing from surgery, and exercise for high-energy breeds.
Dominique explains:
“We’ve had dogs arrive unable to walk without pain. After weeks of swimming, they’re moving again with strength and confidence. Some come to build stamina, others just to let loose — but all of them leave happier.”
Ziggy takes his role seriously. He happily welcomes nervous first-timers, often jumping in to show them how fun the water can be. His enthusiasm is contagious, easing the fears of dogs who might otherwise hesitate.
Changing Lives, One Splash at a Time
Over the years, Dominique has met countless families who credit swimming with giving their dogs a second chance at life. From elderly Labradors finding relief from arthritis to young rescues gaining confidence, the pool has become a healing ground.
And Ziggy? He’s more than just a mascot — he’s living proof of the joy animals can bring when they’re given love and purpose. His job may not pay in dollars, but it pays in tail wags, smiles, and unforgettable memories.
