Second annual pooch party makes a big splash

by Dan Holland

The Broadview Heights Parks and Recreation Department held its second annual Splash Park Pooch Party on the evening of Sept. 8. Admission was free with a donation of dog food, cat food or kitty litter. All proceeds from the event were donated to Forget Me Not Animal Rescue and Lucky Paws Animal Rescue.

More than 50 dogs took part in the event along with their owners. The event was the final one of the summer season to be held at the city’s splash park.

“It’s one of our best events,“ said Assistant Parks & Recreation Director Ryan Meyer. “It’s simple, and it’s a great way to end the season at the splash park. It’s just awesome to see all these families come out with their dogs, and it’s a great way to send it off.”

“It’s great because we can bring families out here, and they have their favorite furry friend with them to enjoy the water,” added Parks and Recreation Director Amanda Hutcheson. “It’s not just for the dogs, but for the families and the kids, and it’s also for a good cause. And that’s what it’s truly all about.”

Assistant Head Custodian Jessica Packard, who helped organize the event, said she appreciates the fact that the event helps benefit local rescue organizations.

“It helps Lucky Paws and Forget Me Not Rescue, and it gets dogs to become more social by getting them to try new things,” she said. ∞