Canine Takeover: Dogs Rule the Pool at K9 Splash

Over the weekend, the Bever Park pool in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was transformed into a canine paradise for the annual K9 Splash event. This special occasion allowed dogs to take a dip in the pool and enjoy some aquatic fun while supporting a good cause. The event was organized by the K9 Citizens for Off-Leash Areas (K9COLA) group, with proceeds from the $15 entry fee going towards maintaining their parks in Marion and Ely.

For many dog owners like Kayla Sickles, the K9 Splash is a highlight of the year. Sickles expressed her excitement, saying, „I’m here with my dog having fun. It is my favorite event of the year. She really likes to swim, and it’s one of her only opportunities to do it.“ Sickles has been attending the event for five years, but this year, there were also newcomers eager to let their furry friends take a plunge.

Jordyn Tyler, a new resident of Cedar Rapids, brought her two dogs to the event for the first time. She shared, „I brought both my dogs with me. They’ve never been here before, and we just moved to Cedar Rapids, so we wanted to give it a try.“ Tyler’s dogs had differing reactions to the water, with one enjoying the experience while the other seemed a bit hesitant. This diversity in canine personalities added to the charm of the event.

The K9 Splash provided a perfect opportunity for dogs to socialize and become more comfortable in deeper waters. Some dogs, like Dave, who typically lounges in his owner’s bathtub, had never experienced swimming in water deeper than that. Despite initial hesitations, owners like Amber Doty reported positive experiences, saying, „So far so good. He’s loving the water, he’s fallen in a couple of times, but he’s done great.“ The event not only offered a fun outing for dogs but also helped them build confidence in the water.

As the weekend came to a close, Sunday marked the final day for the K9 Splash. Small dogs had exclusive access to the pool from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by an open invitation for all dogs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This scheduling allowed for a more tailored experience based on the size and preferences of the dogs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time for all participants.

In conclusion, the K9 Splash at Bever Park pool in Cedar Rapids was a delightful event that brought together dogs and their owners for a day of aquatic fun. With proceeds supporting the K9COLA group’s efforts to maintain off-leash parks, attendees not only enjoyed a memorable experience but also contributed to a worthy cause. The event’s success and positive reception from both seasoned attendees and newcomers highlight the importance of creating inclusive and enjoyable activities for our furry companions.