Doggie Dip event returns to Water World this weekend

DOTHAN, Ala. (WDHN) — A popular end-of-summer event is returning to Water World this weekend, where people and their four-legged companions can go for a swim for a good cause. Water World will host its sixth annual Doggie Dip from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, September 12. All admission and vendor fees will benefit two Wiregrass animal organizations, Wiregrass Pets Rescue & Adoption and Wiregrass Spay and Neuter Alliance. Doggie Dip gives local dogs the opportunity to take over Water World for a morning of swimming, treats, play, and more. Admission is $14 per dog with people admitted for free. 'Doggie Dip has become one of our favorite events of the entire year,' said Kelly Stakelum, (Photo courtesy of City of Dothan) Water World General Manager and Assistant Director of Dothan Leisure Services. 'There is something pretty special about seeing hundreds of dogs running into the wave pool, playing with each other, and just having the best morning.' Larger dogs are welcome to swim in the wave pool while smaller or more timid dogs are invited to play at the Kids Cove. The event will also have 20 local vendors, pup cups, giveaways, contests and other activities. In addition, this year Wiregrass Pets Rescue & Adoption is inviting residents to take a shelter dog to the event as part of their 'Doggie Day Out' program. This allows residents to spend a day with a shelter dog and return the dog at the end of the day. This is an opportunity to prepare dogs for their forever homes and for residents to spend a day with a companion, or maybe see if adoption is for them. (Flier courtesy of City of Dothan) 'This is a chance to make a shelter dog's day, even if adoption isn't an option for you right now,' Stakelum said. 'You get a fun Saturday morning with a four-legged sidekick, and that dog gets a few hours out of the shelter to play in the water, meet new friends, get lots of attention, and just be a dog.' Residents who want to take a shelter dog to the Doggie Dip must arrive at Wiregrass Pets at 7 a.m. on Saturday, September 12 to pick up a participating dog. Shelter dogs will receive free admission to the event. Residents must return the dogs after the event. Anyone who decide they would like to adopt their Doggie Dip companion can do so at the shelter after the event and complete adoption paperwork and process.