These dogs come to the California beach town of Del Mar with their owners almost every day to prepare for the big swim. They are being trained for the Surf-A-Thon dog surfing championships, which will be held in September.
Here, everyone is introduced to special boards for the sport, dog floats and water safety rules.
Dog surfing instructor Scott Owens comes to the class with his two Dalmatians Bentley and Bailey.
The instructor says the sight of the dogs riding the waves attracts a lot of people. What especially surprises everyone is that the pets show great skill.
The dog surfing competition is organized by the Helen Woodward Animal Center. The event was first held back 18 years ago. The swims usually raise money for the pets as well as programs to find them new owners.
Scott Owens, dog surfing instructor:
“We’re like one big family. People come and spend time with their dogs and also with their kids. And that’s a big plus. It holds a big place in our hearts.”
