Splashdown mission for lab attache

Stella makes a flying start in her bid to get relief from the heat of Washington DC.

There's no better way to cool down when it's hot than with a quick splash in the pool - especially when you're a playful pup hanging out at the New Zealand Embassy in Washington DC.

Alan Tilyard, who works at the embassy, snapped 11-month-old Stella as she took a giant leap into the swimming pool yesterday.

Deputy head of mission Caroline Beresford adopted the chocolate labrador at 8 weeks old and says Stella has gone to work with her every day since.

"She is based in my office but we all take turns looking after her.

"This summer, she learned to swim and has taken to the embassy pool like a duck to water - and can often be found hanging about by the pool gate hoping for a friend to let her in.

"The big swan dives have become her regular method of pool entry, which makes us all laugh.

"The temperature has been soaring to over 40C most days this summer so the pool is a great way to cool off and get some exercise."

Ms Beresford said Stella was part of the embassy family of about 60 people.

"She's still a young dog and a bit naughty and has been known to wander into the ambassador's office to say hello, and regularly snores loudly through my meetings!

"Apart from the swimming, she loves to join in our weeklyembassy yoga class," Ms Beresford said.

"She does a good downward dog but hasn't the patience for the meditation at the end - she wanders between the mats licking faces."