This article was featured in WYDaily on 9/16/22.

Splish, splash, 240 dogs perfected the art of the belly flop on Sept. 10, 2022 to set a new attendance record at Drool in the Pool benefiting homeless pets at the Heritage Humane Society.

Take a dip, help homeless pets

Attendance soared by 60% up over 150 dogs in 2021. The annual end-of-summer furry friend experience was the biggest in the event’s history. Event partner James City Country Parks & Recreation hosted the event at the Chickahominy Riverfront Park Pool as a farewell to the swim season. Hundreds of dogs dove in the pool and wiggled around the neighboring splash pad as they enjoyed their once-a-year pool fun there. The event raised almost $3,000 to support the homeless pets at the Heritage Humane Society.

“Drool in the Pool was an amazing event, and great fun for both dogs and owners!  Not only did the dogs have the main pool, but also their choice of plastic kiddie pools, water spouts (tall and short), and even after pool baths!  It was a sight to behold watching the dogs as they sniffed/chased and played with one another in and out of the water,” shared Sylvia and Martin Teeuwen who brought their dog, Stella. “They had a blast! Many thanks to the staff for all the hard work that went into this great event!”

The water-loving canines brought their loving human companions who got to enjoy watching their pups have fun. Complete with plenty of dog toys to play with, once the fun was over, for an additional $10 donation, tuckered out dogs could enjoy a shampoo and towel dry by sponsor Muddy Marley’s Dog Wash who cared for 40 dogs. 92.3 The Tide was at the event playing music for everyone. Mr. Q’s BBQ had a food truck at the event and kindly donated 5% of their sales to the Heritage Humane Society.

“Huge thanks to Heritage Humane Society for an amazing day at Drool in the Pool. There was a feeling of pure joy from the dogs and their people that was so much fun to be a part of. We also appreciated Muddy Marley’s Dog Wash being there to offer baths for only $10 and then donating all the proceeds to HHS!” said attendee Kelly Treolo. “We are very grateful for what you do for animals in need. You are a real asset to our community.”

Dog-paddling for fur-ever homes

Adoptable dogs Mushu and Sky from the Heritage Humane Society enjoyed a pre-game of dog paddling fun just before Drool and the Pool opened to the public at 9 am. Sky was adopted this weekend, and Mushu is still available for adoption.

Mushu is a one-year-old terrier mix looking for a home to call his own. Mushu has been at the Heritage Humane Society since March. He has been introduced to some dog friends at HHS and seems to enjoy their company. He loves to play and even has an adorable tendency to hop like a bunny when he is having fun. His endearing grey eye patch is sure to remind some of Petey from “The Little Rascals,” one of the most lovable and recognizable dogs in television history.

Mark your calendar for 2023

The next Drool in the Pool will be on Sept. 9, 2023, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Chickahominy Riverfront Park Pool. Don’t have a dog? Visit these adoptable dogs available at the Heritage Humane Society.

To learn more, visit HeritageHumane.org or call 757-221-0150. Heritage Humane Society is located at 430 Waller Mill Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185.

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