One of the summer's more popular events - Doggie Swim Day - has been set for Sunday afternoon, Aug. 27, at the Poplar Bluff city pool at Hillcrest Park.
Doggie Swim Day is sponsored by the Animal Welfare Alliance (AWA) and the Poplar Bluff Parks & Recreation Dept. Admission is just $1 per dog; their humans get in free. Refreshments for two-leggeds and four-leggeds will be available for purchase.
Hours for the event are 2 to 4 p.m. Pet owners may swim with their dogs or walk along the side of the pool as their dogs swim on a leash. Lifeguards will be on duty.
All dogs must be leashed, under adult supervision, and up to date on vaccinations. Puppies 12 weeks old or under will be restricted to the baby pool.
Doggie Swim Day marks the end of the swim season at the city pool. Chlorine levels will be allowed to dissipate somewhat before the event to make sure the pool water is safe for people but not too irritating for pets.
Reservations are not necessary for Doggie Swim Day. The Poplar Bluff city pool is located at 430 North 2nd St. Participants should bring their own towels. Dishes of water for thirsty pets will be provided.
Information on Doggie Swim Day is available on AWA's website, "http://www.awasemo.org/"www.awasemo.org or its Facebook page at facebook.com/awasemo.
Information also is available on the Poplar Bluff Parks & Recreation Department website, "http://www.poplarbluff-mo.gov/168/Parks-Recreation"www.poplarbluff-mo.gov/168/Parks-Recreation.
The Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri is registered with state and federal regulators as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Donations to AWA are tax deductible and can be sent to PO Box 647, Poplar Bluff, MO 63902.
AWA's primary goal is to build a no-kill animal shelter to serve Butler and neighboring counties.
Meanwhile, the organization spends up to $2,000 a month on programs. With the cooperation of Poplar Bluff's Animal Control officers, AWA helps provide vaccinations for puppies and kittens in the city's shelter. AWA also provides $50 vouchers for qualifying pet owners to help with spay/neuter costs. Since its first full year of operation in 2009, AWA has spent more than $45,000 to help spay and neuter area dogs and cats.