Pups take over the Kiwanis Park pool for Humane Society fundraiser
A pool party was held in Kitchener Sunday, but this one was just for the dogs.
The event, called “Dash and Splash”, was a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth.
The Kiwanis Park pool was closed to all human swimmers to make way for their furry friends.
“In the past we’ve had over 400 dogs,” said Nick Burke, the organization’s Director of Development. “We’re hoping to get around that number today.”
This the first time since 2019 they’ve been able to hold the “Dash and Splash”, which is a combination of two other fundraisers – the Wiggle Waggle Walk and Surf Dogs.
“COVID-19 has made it very challenging for us to raise money, without being able to do events,” says Burke. “We’ve been very fortunate that our community has rallied around us and kept us in a position to do the work that we need to do. We’re absolutely thrilled to be back in person to be able to do these events and we look forward to doing more of these in the future.”
While humans got into the event for free, they gave a $15 donation to the Humane Society for their pup.
“Once the dogs are in they are off-leash, they get to enjoy the pool and some balls and toys. And meeting other dogs. Hopefully everyone has their energy run out of them and they can go home for a nice big nap.”
The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth says animals come into their shelter with a variety of needs, from medical conditions to emotional issues stemming from abandonment and poor treatment. The money raised at this event, and others, helps to ensure they all receive the care they deserve.
The Humane Soceity's next fundraiser, “Paws in the Park,” will be held next month in Stratford.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
2 slain gunmen still unidentified after Saanich shooting: BC RCMP
Saanich police will hold another update on a deadly shooting that took place on Tuesday afternoon, leaving two suspects dead and six officers with gunshot wounds.

Royal Canadian Navy relieves Pacific fleet ship commander for 'inappropriate conduct'
The Royal Canadian Navy says it has relieved the commanding officer of a warship in the Pacific Fleet.
Here's what Air Canada and WestJet have said about reducing flights
Two of Canada's largest airlines announced steps this week to cope with delays, cancellations and service issues. Head to CTVNews.ca to read about the changes announced by Air Canada and WestJet.
Nine people shot in Newark, New Jersey: reports
Nine people, including at least one juvenile, were shot and wounded in Newark, New Jersey, on Thursday, police said.
Poilievre marches with soldier protesting COVID-19 mandates ahead of Canada Day
Conservative leadership candidate Pierre Poilievre joined the final leg of a march led by a Canadian soldier charged for speaking out against COVID-19 vaccine requirements that has sparked promises -- and fears -- of a new wave of protests in the capital.
Convoy organizer Lich to spend at least 5 more nights in custody
Ottawa protest organizer Tamara Lich will spend at least five more nights in custody in Ottawa after she was arrested in Alberta for allegedly breaching bail conditions.
Approximately 675K eligible to vote in Conservative leadership race: party
The Conservative Party of Canada says approximately 675,000 members will be eligible to vote in this year's leadership race.
Omicron cousin BA.5 predicted to cause nearly 70 per cent of COVID-19 cases by Canada Day
Researchers examining the threat of emerging COVID-19 strains predict Omicron BA.5 will account for nearly 70 per cent of cases in much of the country by Canada Day.
Supreme Court says expanded rape shield laws are constitutional
The Supreme Court of Canada says the expanded rules to further prevent a sexual assault complainant's past from being used against them in a trial are 'constitutional in their entirety.'