The Dog-a-POOL-ooza Swim

It was a great night for a swim! I got to Terrace Park around 5:20 and they were already lining up. Dogs and owners were everywhere and they just kept coming. I would love to know the count (so I'll probably start googling soon). ;O)  When they opened the gate I swear the happiness was audible. Every dog had a spring in their step and they trotted in with their owner as fast as they could without bolting into a full out run. 

Some of the dogs knew exactly what the pool was for and jumped straight in.  There were divers in the deep end retrieving tennis balls and sticks and there were others that I swear were just there to see who could make the biggest splash. HA! (A certain relative  just came to mind, huh.)  :O)

There were little dogs and big dogs alike all running around the kiddie pool splashing like crazy, and as I was taking pictures I would feel a wet nose every once in a while nudging me gently (or not so gently) in greeting.  By the time I left it looked like I had wet my pants . . . and, let me tell you, I wore those pants proudly.

The diving dogs needed assistance getting out of the pool and everyone was happy to help.

Likewise, if there were stray balls laying around, some of the dogs were more than willing to do their part (even if they already had one or two in their mouth).

This border collie was obviously going to learn all about what fun can be had at the pool. Mom was trying to coax her into the pool and she pawed and pawed at the water trying to reach her. 

Mom was very patient and just kept encouraging her collie. After a bit, the collie's sheepdog sibling (who was not quite as patient as mom) went over and tried to get her to jump in. Of course the collie was having none of that because you know her sibling was calling her a chicken of sorts. Well, dad got the sheepdog to come back and sit by mom as they all encouraged the collie again. This time it didn't take long and she was in the water.  

I was grinning from ear to ear.  Anyone who happened to be watching this was oh so proud.  ;O)

It was the best end to summer that anyone could possibly ask for. Running, smiling, splashing, jumping . . . Oh, and all the chaos and fun didn't stop those who are into the more relaxing aspects of a pool; they seemed to enjoy their evening just as much as the next dog.  A good time truly was had by all.