SPEARFISH, S.D. – Dogs can enjoy a final splash before the pools close for the season at the Dog Days event, Tuesday, Sept. 2, from 5-7 p.m. at the Spearfish Recreation and Aquatics Center. The event provides a fun and unique opportunity for well-behaved canines and their owners to enjoy the water park.
The popular annual event invites pooches to swim, play fetch with tennis balls, and socialize in the pools before they are drained for the winter. Owners are asked to bring leashes, tennis balls, and waste bags. In lieu of an entry fee, organizers are asking for a donation to the Western Hills Humane Society.
For health and safety reasons, people are not permitted in the water during this event. The Spearfish Recreation and Aquatics Center staff reminds owners that they are fully responsible for their dogs’ actions and behavior.
The safety of all attendees, both two-legged and four-legged, is the top priority. Owners should only bring dogs that are comfortable around other animals, people, and in new environments.
Rules from the off-leash dog park apply to this event. Handlers must be 18 or older and can bring a maximum of two dogs. All dogs must be at least six months old and have a current rabies tag and dog license. Dogs in heat are not permitted. Handlers must be able to maintain voice control over their dogs and clean up after them.
Children between 12 and 17 must be accompanied by an adult, while children under 12 must have direct supervision. Dogs showing signs of aggression will be removed from the event.
For more information about this event in the Black Hills, call the rec center at 605-722-1430. This event is a great way for dog owners in Rapid City and the wider South Dakota area to give their pets a unique treat.