Back in 2016, I read a delicious little news item about an Arizona community that gave their public pool a canine twist after Labor Day. The photos were adorable and told a story of what looked like a veritable doggie Disneyland. So, as I am the person at a party more likely to be on the floor with the family dog rather than talking to people, and knowing how pet-friendly our city is, a light bulb popped on.
I pitched the idea to Georgetown’s then-Mayor Dale Ross, who was all ears and quipped, “Ask and you shall receive.” True to his word, by September 2017, Dale and Georgetown Parks and Recreation’s Kimberly “Director of Fun” Garrett (facing page) had made the K-9 Kerplunk a reality.
Despite a skipped dip due to COVID, and one October swim after a hurricane delay, this year we’re celebrating the eighth anniversary. Happily, its popularity has grown to the point that the city has doubled down and scheduled two swim sessions to accommodate more pups and people.
NATIONWIDE SPLASH
Doggie pool parties have grown in popularity across the country and the growing trend can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, they offer a safe and fun environment for dogs to interact with one another, which is great for their social development. Kerplunks also bring local dog owners together to create good neighbor bonds via a shared love of furry family members.
Kerplunks are especially good for the dogs as swimming is an excellent exercise, particularly for those with joint issues or arthritis. Plus, owners don’t have to worry about the heat of late summer surfaces on tender paw pads.
It’s also good for the city to bring in one more day of healthy revenue via admission fees and sponsorships, aligning a fun activity with a lot of good causes.
The Rec Center pool will be closed to humans in mid-August, but the community center will once again be opening its gates next month for furry friends to enjoy a last lap. This end-of-season event is definitely a star in the Georgetown Parks and Recreation crown.
SEPTEMBER 17 • 10-11AM OR 11AM-NOON.
To keep things manageable, each session is capped at 100 dogs.
Kimberly noted the abundance of dog parks in Georgetown and our community’s love for safe, joyful gatherings. “It’s a chance for some paw-friendly socializing post the human swim season,” she explains. She adds the rec center pool, with its gentle slope, is perfect for easy canine access.
The joy is palpable — dogs dart down slides, take Tik-Tok-worthy leaps from the edges, yap at waterfalls, catch water from the buckets, and mingle in the fountains. As well, there is no cause for concern about cleanliness. The pool will undergo a thorough cleaning once fully closed for the season.
Local businesses and organizations are also invited to contribute, setting up food stands, beverage stops, and pet-friendly booths. Animal control and vendors dealing in pet care also help ensure the event’s success. Sponsorship applications are available now and the deadline to apply is August 9. Scan the code to register and be part of the fun.
POOL RULES
- The event is a quick sell-out, but those lucky enough to snag a spot should remember:
- Rabies / vaccination records are required for admission.
- Children under 12 are not allowed in the pool and each must be accompanied by an adult not also overseeing a dog.
- To ensure everyone’s safety, owners are invited to wade in the water with their pets but, for safety reasons, organizers recommend only ankle-deep.
- Owners must clean up after their dogs.
- Aggressive dogs will not be permitted to participate. Dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior will be asked to leave immediately.
- Visit the website for a full list of rules and compliance.
- Humans are admitted free and canine admission is $5, limited to the first 100 dogs—so early registration is encouraged. Ready to sign up? Click here to register and complete the necessary waivers.