Dogs get their day in the pool

By Dave Clark

Thursday, Oct. 2, 2008 | midnight

For the first time, Henderson will open its Multigenerational Activity Pool on Oct. 11 to canines during its Doggie Paddle and Play Day.

The day will be split into two sessions of 75 minutes apiece: one beginning at 9 a.m. for dogs 50 pounds or fewer and another beginning at 10:45 a.m. for dogs weighing more than 50 pounds.

"It should be a pretty fun time," pool operation specialist Colleen O'Brien said.

The pool typically lies dormant from Labor Day to Memorial Day, but it will be reopened for the event, which is modeled after similar activities hosted by Clark County.

"Clark County has this, and they've been really successful," O'Brien said.

Cost is $2 per dog, and animals must have proof of vaccinations. All dogs must also be leashed while in the parking lot and outside areas.

Bags will be provided to clean up after pets.

Participants are encouraged to arrive 10 to 15 minutes prior to the event's start.

Aside from water fun, the Play Day will include six contests, each one being held for both weight classes. They include funny pet tricks, best Halloween costume and an owner/pet look-alike competition.

The look-alike can involve costumes or no costumes.

The Play Day will additionally have vendors, food and a dog psychic.

Organizers expect as many as 400 dogs to attend.

"This will give them a chance to get in the water and just mingle with other dogs in a setting most other dog parks do not offer," O'Brien said.

Following the event, the pool will be drained. Humans will not be allowed to swim with the dogs.

Dave Clark can be reached at 990-2677 or dave.clark@hbcpub.com.