Alaska K9 Aquatics

Each dog must complete a private orientation to learn to exit the pool via the ramp. Sessions are 30 minutes in the pool and up to 30 minutes in the bath/drying area. Trainers use toys or treats to encourage entry and build confidence. Assisted swims are available for dogs needing physical guidance. Dogs may swim more than once per day but not in back-to-back sessions. No feeding within 4 hours of a session. Multiple dogs may attend the same appointment if all have passed orientation.

Pricing Summary

Unassisted swim: $55; Assisted swim: $65; Four-swim punchcard saves $5 per swim; Dog bath: $30 (includes shampoo and two towels); Towels rent for $1 each; Shampoo sells for $4. Punchcards expire in 6 months and can be put on hold. No military discounts offered.

Policies

All sessions are by appointment only. Cancellations or rescheduling require calling ahead. No walk-ins allowed. Dogs must be leashed entering and exiting the facility. Poop accidents require pool closure for 30+ minutes, so feeding is restricted 4 hours before swimming. Bath appointments are limited to one dog unless otherwise arranged.

Alaska K9 Aquatics is a private facility in Anchorage, Alaska, offering recreational and therapeutic dog swimming sessions tailored for dogs of all ages and breeds. Their 18’ x 35’ pool is designed specifically for canine use, with a ramp for safe entry and exit, life jackets provided, and private, appointment-only sessions to ensure a stress-free experience. Trainers assist dogs in learning to swim safely, especially those with injuries, arthritis, obesity, or high energy levels, using positive, patient methods rooted in consistency and reward-based encouragement. The facility also offers self-serve dog baths with attendants available for help, and sells premium dog gear like Ruffwear, Hurtta, and Freedom No-Pull Harnesses. While not a traditional obedience trainer, they provide foundational water-based training that supports behavior, mobility, and confidence, particularly for senior dogs, post-surgical recovery, and dogs with anxiety or fear of water.

The team includes Heather Priest (resident trainer/manager), Martina (Trainer Emeritus), and Naomi Lowe (trainer in training), all guided by owner Julie Riley, whose experience working with special needs children informs their patient, individualized approach. Orientation sessions are required for all dogs to ensure safe pool use, and sessions are structured to match each dog’s comfort level—assisted or unassisted—based on their progress. They do not offer traditional on-land obedience training but focus on water-based physical and behavioral development.

All sessions are private, no other dogs are present during appointments, and the facility accommodates multiple dogs per visit. They emphasize safety, cleanliness, and a calm environment, making them ideal for nervous, elderly, or reactive dogs who need a controlled setting to thrive.

Accomplishments

Founded in 2012 by Martina; taken over in 2022 by Julie Riley, who brings experience working with special needs children. Martina remains as Trainer Emeritus. The facility has maintained a strong reputation for safety, cleanliness, and personalized care over 10+ years.

How to Get Started!

Call to schedule an orientation appointment. Arrive 15 minutes early to meet staff, fit a life jacket, and begin the 30-minute orientation swim. Trainers assess the dog’s comfort and ability to use the ramp. Based on the assessment, future sessions are scheduled as unassisted or assisted swims.