PRAIRIE GROVE -- Cloudy skies provided perfect weather Aug. 22 for dogs and humans alike to enjoy the third annual Soggy Doggy Pool Party, hosted by Friends of Prairie Grove Pound.
Clouds kept temperatures down somewhat for owners during what would be a typical, hot August day.
Big dogs, little dogs and medium sized dogs obviously had fun as the animals romped in the pool, launched off the diving board, chased each other, fetched balls and Frisbees and basically had the run of Prairie Grove Aquatic Park.
Attendance was up. Last year, 100 dogs came to the party. This year, 120 dogs registered and the fundraiser brought in about $3,500 for the Friends' organization.
"The dogs had a great time and I think everyone else did too," said Sharon Glover, a member of Friends' board of directors. "We had lots of big, beautiful dogs and cute little dogs."
Her favorite, she said, was a Pomeranian that thought she "owned the pool."
Dusty and Heather Jebsen, of Bentonville, brought their two golden retrievers to the party. They moved from Utah last year and learned about the Soggy Doggy party through Facebook.
"We love it," said Heather Jebsen, as she watched Finn and Ripley enjoy the water. "They obviously are having a blast. They would do this all day if we'd let them."
Debbie Collins, of Springdale, has been every year and brought Maya, a small shepherd mix, to play in the water this year.
"What a great idea," added Wendy Christiansen. It was her first time to come and bring her pet.
Vendors at the dog party included a doggie daycare business and a grooming/dog bathing shop. Friends of Prairie Grove Pound sponsored a concession stand during the four-hour event.
Each year the board thinks of ways to improve the party for the next year. This year, an emergency medical technician was available to take care of any medical or first aid needs. Next year, the board wants to have a veterinarian or vet tech on board to help with any issues that may come up with the dogs.
"It just keeps getting bigger and better," said Glover.
General News on 09/02/2015