This Saturday is the last day for humans to take a dip in the city pool this summer, but on Sunday the Wetlands Aquatic Center will be open to canines. The Wetlands will host its annual Bark at the Water Park from 2-6 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $5 per dog, with proceeds going toward upkeep of the dog park within Veterans Memorial Park, according to Parks Director Terry Hoff.
Mindy Hickel, organizer of the event, encourages pet owners to bring their dogs, but leave their swimsuits at home on Sunday.
“The humans are not allowed to swim,” Hickel said. “It’s just for the dogs.” However, lifeguards will be on duty.
For humans, the pool is open daily from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. through Saturday, weather permitting. Tonight will be the final family night of the season, with the pool open from 7-9 p.m.
Hickel said this year’s Bark at the Water Park has shorter hours than in previous years and has moved from Saturday to Sunday, but she expects about 100 people. The rules at the dog park apply at the pool: Dogs must have their rabies tags. They should be socialized and not aggressive. Owners must clean up after their pets.
At the dog park, located on the northwest side of Veterans Lake, dogs can be off-leash to play with other dogs and run off some energy, Hickel said. The same goes for Bark at the Water Park, “and they get to be in the water.”