We’re dog people
IT ALL STARTED WHEN…
Paws to Swim opened in 2002 when founder Debbie Logerfo sought treatment for her Bernese Mountain Dog, Davos, who was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia. Swimming helped ward off the crippling arthritis often associated with dysplasia, & Debbie discovered endless benefits to the practice.
Alice and Henry Nickel took ownership in 2015 after a decade fostering and working with dogs. A longtime administrative assistant at Betty Baugh’s Animal Clinic, Alice helped to establish animal rescue groups in both South Carolina and Virginia. This husband and wife duo consider swimming a longtime passion and bring a fresh energy to the program.
Located just 20 minutes north of Short Pump, our facility was built specifically for dogs and offers 3 indoor, heated pools. It’s also home to an outdoor regulation sized canine dock diving pool, an outdoor swimming pool for pups who just want to swim and jump, and two fenced-in fields for your dogs to play in!
Meet the team
Alice & Henry
New bio coming soon!
Gaby
Gaby became involved in the dog world after adopting her soul-dog, Murphy. He needed more support and specialized care to address his anxiety. After seeing how Murphy could grow and transform, she became passionate about extending that same care to every dog she meets. She spends her free time with her husband, Irish setter Murphy, and pit-mix Zoey.
Alex
After spending 5 years in the veterinary field, Alex switched to a career outside of the animal world. Now she feeds her dog-loving soul by spending her free time at Paws to Swim! Alex has a soft spot for large (and extra large!) breed dogs. She lost her soul-dog, Private, to brain cancer in 2022. After her journey in coping with his behavioral and physical changes, she is grateful to offer a safe place for dogs of all capabilities and dispositions.
Meet the Paws to Swim pups!
