West Hartford dogs are invited to dive into the Beachland Park pool on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.
By Ronni Newton
West Hartford’s outdoor pools close for the season on Aug. 18, but the town’s now-longstanding tradition of keeping one pool open so “some” residents can enjoy the water for one more day will continue in 2024.
Swimming on Monday, Aug. 19 at Beachland Park, 847 South Quaker Lane, is for canines only, and based on the history of this popular event, more than 100 dogs are expected to attend.
The annual end-of-summer Pooch Plunge is once again a fundraiser in support of the West Hartford Dog Park Coalition’s plans to establish a permanent dog park. Since November 2022, West Hartford has had a dog park at the former St. Brigid School property at 100 Mayflower Street, and while that remains open it will have to close once of the new Elmwood Community and Cultural Center begins.
The cost to attend the Pooch Plunge is $15 for the first dog, and $5 for each additional dog. Registration can be done online in advance and walk-ins are also welcome at the gate with payment via Venmo or cash. A waiver must be completed, either in advance or at the event.
Organizers note that there will also be a raffle with some “paw-some” prizes to be awarded. Sponsors for this years event include the Town of West Hartford, West Hartford Dog Park Coalition, Zoomin Groomin Mobile Pet Spa, and Camp Bow Wow Bloomington, CT.
The event will feature just one session this year, from 4 to 6:45 p.m., and dogs and their owners can come and go. Children may attend but humans are not permitted in the pool. Children and dogs must be supervised, organizers said.
Tennis balls will be provided, but attendees are asked not to bring any personal dog toys.
All dogs must be properly licensed and have 2024 tags.
Attendees are asked to please scoop their dogs’ poop.
Anyone who is unable attend but would like to support the dog park can still donate through this link.
More information can be found on the West Hartford Dog Park Coalition Facebook page.
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