DOGGY paddlers did not paws for thought when given the chance to take the plunge at a special canine swim.

Hundreds of hounds showed their best strokes as they joined the Doggy Swim on the last day of the season at Saltdean Lido.

For the last weekend of the year the mutts got to enjoy the crystal clear water of the Art Deco pool.

Dog owners and their best friends queued round the block for the chance of a paddle.

Sharon Phillpot’s poodle cross Bertie was in his element.

Sharon, of Hassocks, said: “He loves to swim, but normally it’s in dirty water, so I thought he might be a bit confused.

“But he came out nice and clean which was a nice change.”

“It was such a great atmosphere.

“All the dogs were sharing their tennis balls and frisbees.”

Tim Morley travelled from Woking in Surrey to take his best friend Hugo for a dip.

He said: “Once he worked out how to get in and out of the steps he was in his element.

“I think he was a bit hesitant to start with because he could see the bottom and normally you can’t see the bottom in the murky water of the canal where he usually swims.

“It was great fun. There was a bit of barking and squeals from the owners.”

Penny Harlington and daughter Leoni, took labrador Lexi for a dip.

Penny said: “She loves swimming in the sea or anywhere she gets a chance.

This is such a lovely thing to do.

“She did have a slight accident though because she bumped into the glass railings because she was so excited and couldn’t see it.”

Maria Bullingham took one of her pet cocker spaniels on Saturday - then returned with her other on Sunday.

She said: “I went last year too and I think it is a lovely thing to so.

“The dogs were all fantastic. They were so well behaved, even in the queue. I think they knew they were in for a treat.”

The Doggy Swim is repeated next weekend