Hemel Hempstead’s Doggy Splash returns for fifth year
Dogs will once again be taking over the outdoor pool at Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centre this month, as its much-loved Doggy Splash returns for a fifth year.
The popular event gives local dogs the chance to enjoy a swim alongside their owners before the outdoor pool closes for the season.
The Doggy Splash takes place once the pool’s regular swimming programme has finished. Following the final session, the pool will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, with the water filtered and cleaned before the outdoor pool closes for the season.
This year’s Doggy Splash will take place across five days, from Saturday 19 to Wednesday 23 September, with sessions designed to give dogs and their owners plenty of opportunities to take part.
The weekend of Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September will feature sessions open to dogs of all sizes, with 90-minute swims taking place at 10am, 12pm, 2pm and 4pm on both days.
There will then be dedicated sessions during the week for dogs who may benefit from a more tailored experience:
Monday 21 September – Small dogs: 4.30pm, 90 minutes
Tuesday 22 September – Large dogs: 4.30pm, 90 minutes
Wednesday 23 September – Nervous dogs: 4.30pm and 5.30pm, 60 minutes
The dedicated sessions give owners more choice and allow them to select a session that best suits their dog, while the weekend sessions are open to dogs of all sizes.
David Tenny, General Manager at Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centre, said: “Doggy Splash has become a real highlight in our calendar, and it’s fantastic to be bringing it back for a fifth year. As a dog owner myself, I know how much our four-legged friends are part of the family, so it’s great to be able to offer them the chance to enjoy the outdoor pool too.
“This year we’ve got our open sessions across the weekend, as well as dedicated sessions for small, large and nervous dogs during the week. That gives owners more choice and means they can pick a session that feels right for their dog.
“It’s always brilliant to see the excitement from the dogs and their owners, and we’re looking forward to welcoming them back for another Doggy Splash before the outdoor pool closes for the season.”
Each booking costs £18 for one dog and one owner aged 18 or over, with additional humans welcome for £8.50 each. Each dog must be booked separately.
Owners must enter the pool with their dog if they are swimming. The splash pad will also be available for dogs who prefer shallower water.
Dogs must be fully vaccinated and at least 10 months old to take part and should be comfortable around other dogs and people. Owners are responsible for supervising their dogs throughout the event.
The pool is expected to be around 22°C, although the temperature may vary depending on the weather.
Places are limited and must be booked in advance. For more information and to book, visit the Everyone Active website or contact Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centre on 01442 507100.
Everyone Active operates Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centre in partnership with Dacorum Borough Council.