Bark in the Pool a howling success

Hundreds of dogs pulled at the lead to dive into a Herne Bay swimming pool at the weekend in the name of charity.

The Purina Beneful Bark in the Pool event, which saw Pt Erin Pool turn into a canine-only zone, was organised in association with non-profit organisation Bark NZ, and saw over 650 four-legged friends take to the water on Saturday.

Purina brand manager, Natalie Stuart, helped organise the event and said she was ecstatic with how the day panned out.

“People were really excited to be here, and made sure their dogs were comfortable for the most part. The dogs on the way out looked absolutely pooped which is great.”

Ms Stuart said Bark NZ was an obvious choice when deciding who to partner with, as the organisation focuses on promoting safe and happy dog experiences for children.

Previously held at Parnell Baths, the event was moved to Pt Erin this year due to the pools being much more dog friendly with better access, and more room to play.

Dogs of all shapes and sizes had the option of either fetching tennis balls in the pool, or attempting to conquer the agility course set up on the grass.

Bark NZ director, Heather Laanbroek, was in the water throughout the day to help any anxious dogs, and said this year’s event outdid previous years’ with better planning.

“Last year was a four hour day and people were coming at the beginning and staying until the end and not seeing their dogs were tired.”

Saturday’s event saw three one-and-a-half-hour sessions run throughout the day to help manage dogs’ energy levels.

Laurelin Okan attended the event with her cocker spaniel Rufus as it was an opportunity for him to socialise with other dogs, and also step out of his comfort zone.

“I wanted to introduce him to swimming because he’s not very big on that yet. So I thought maybe if he saw all of the other dogs doing it he might be a bit more keen.”

Shanna Breman-Trewern also attended with her French bulldog-pug cross, Elvis, and was impressed with the organisation of the event.

“Dogs don’t ever really get the chance to go in a pool with so many other dogs without an event like this. It’s great.”

Bark NZ and Purina Beneful will next be visiting Hamilton Gardens on Sunday, April 10, for their next dog event, Bark in the Park.