Dogs get the pool to themselves Sept. 19 when the Summit Area YMCA opens the Berkeley Heights Community Pool for its annual Doggy Dip Fundraiser.
The end-of-season swim runs from 9 a.m. to noon at 59 Locust Ave. in Berkeley Heights. Registration costs $25 per dog, and all proceeds go to the Summit Area YMCA Annual Fund, according to the YMCA.
The pool is split into two sessions by size. Small and medium dogs under 40 pounds swim from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Large dogs over 40 pounds take over from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The main pool ranges from 4 to 12 feet deep, and dogs must be able to swim. A gated kiddie pool will be open for dogs that cannot handle the deeper water.
Tammy Como, executive director of the Berkeley Heights YMCA, called the event a fun way to close out the pool season. "It's a small thing, letting the dogs take a dip, but it goes a long way toward making sure our neighbors have access to everything the Y has to offer, no matter their circumstances," Como said.
Annual Fund proceeds support several programs that serve Summit-area families. The Achievers mentoring program serves high school students. The 7th Grade Initiative targets middle schoolers. Adaptive programs serve individuals with special needs. Scholarships cover childcare, memberships and camp so cost does not block access.
Owners must bring a valid dog license, proof of current rabies vaccination and a signed event waiver. Dogs need to be friendly with people and other dogs. Owners must stay with their dog at all times.
The event is weather-dependent with no rain date. The $25 registration is a charitable donation and is non-refundable.
Registration and the waiver are available on the YMCA's event page. Questions can go to Jeramie Barletta at [email protected].
Upcoming community events
- Sept. 19: Summit Area YMCA Doggy Dip Fundraiser, 9 a.m. to noon, Berkeley Heights Community Pool, 59 Locust Ave., Berkeley Heights. $25 per dog. Register at thesay.org/doggy-dip.
