Aug 2, 2016 2 min read

The Carmichaels Pool at Wana B Park will literally be going to the dogs later this month as the Humane Society of Greene County holds its annual “Dog Gone Pool Party.”

After closing for the season, the pool will be open Sunday, Aug. 21, between 1 and 3 p.m., for dogs to swim and cool off during what is, after all, the dog days of summer.

For a donation to the humane society, owners can let their dogs use the pool and if they wish, jump in themselves.

The humane society has held the event since 2006 to help raise money for its shelter.

“It’s not a big fundraiser for us, but that’s not the purpose of it,” said Amy Gyurke, party coordinator. “It’s more a community get together, a kind of meet and greet. People bring their dogs and get together and have a chance to get to know the humane society and what we stand for.”

They typically get 40 to 50 dogs for the event, but last year about 95 dogs attended the party.

“By far, it was one of the biggest years we’ve had,” Gyurke said.

Many people bring their whole families and spectators also are normally in abundance, Gyurke said. Children especially enjoy it when dogs come dressed for the occasion.

“We have dogs that show up in bikinis or little Speedos, if they’re males,” she said. “It’s just a fun event.”

This year’s pool party is again sponsored by Watters Pools of Carmichaels in memory of Kenny Denny. Watters is a supporter of the humane society. Denney was one of the business’s longtime employees and an animal lover. He died in February 2015.

As always, the party will include awards and prizes. Every dog will also receive a treat bag.

Canines must arrive on a leash and show documentation of updated vaccinations. Children who attend under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Gyurke thanked the county commissioners and county Department of Recreation for the use of the pool.

For further information on the Dog Gone Pool Party, call the humane society shelter at 724-627-9988 or visit the website at www.greenepet.org.