MEDINA — The dog days of summer may mean languid lounging poolside for people, but local pooches can get in the act at the Doggie Pool Party.

The event, from 4 to 8 p.m. Aug. 24 rain or shine at the Medina City Pool, 421 E. Homestead St., benefits the Medina County Animals Rescue and Evacuation team. The donation is $6 a dog. Humans are admitted free with their dog.

Friendly and nonaggressive dogs and puppies older than 4 months are welcome to take a dip and enjoy the food, fun, contests and prizes. Beverages and baked goods will be available for a donation.

Katherine Holland, co-founder of the Medina CARE team, said there will be three pools — the city pool for dogs who really like to make a big splash, the Woody Memorial Wading Pool for four-footed friends who just like to get their feet wet, and the “Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Pool” for dogs weighing in at 15 pounds or less.
The Woody pool is named in memory of Holland’s golden retriever.

“He’d be pleased to know someone is enjoying his pool,” she said. “He came to every doggie pool party in the area.”

When they’re not competing in the cannonball splash or doggie swimsuit contest, canines can limbo low or eat ice cream. Prizes include toys, treats, beds and dishes.

And if owners want to pamper their pet with a pedicure, Phyllis McDonald of Dog-N-Suds grooming will provide nail clipping for a $5 donation.

Although dogs can run free inside the fenced area, they must remain under control, and their owners are reminded to bring leashes.

“This is just a great event for the end of the year,” Holland said. “The dogs have so much fun. It’s a day when dogs can just be dogs.”

To preregister for the pool party, visit www.careoh.org. Participants who don’t register before the event must bring their pet’s immunization records. Required immunizations are rabies, DA2LPP or DA2LPP/C and bordatella. Information is available on the Web site or via e-mail at medina-care@yahoo.com.

The Medina chapter of CARE, formed in 2008, certifies responders who provide animal rescue and handling during local disasters. In cooperation with the Lorain and Summit County CARE teams, they are the lead organization for disaster response for Northeast Ohio, Holland said. Members are trained in accordance with Federal Emergency Management Agency and American Red Cross guidelines. The group welcomes participation from those who can provide housing, medical care or transportation.

Meetings are 7 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at the Medina County Emergency Management Agency, 555 Independence Drive.

Contact Judy A. Totts at (330) 721-4063 or jtotts@ohio.net.

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