Greenbelt Pooch Plunge Gears Up for a Big Splash

Rain or shine, canines of all shapes and sizes are invited to party-down at Greenbelt's 9th annual pooch plunge Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the outdoor pool.

Small dogs have the kiddie pool available to them.

It's $5 per dog, and one handler per dog is required. There is no charge for the handlers, but they must be at least 18-years-old. And spectators are welcome.

Greenbelt Animal Control and Recreation Departments are sponsoring the event, and proceeds will benefit Greenbelt Animal Shelter and a local wildlife sanctuary.

You can pre-register or just show up. But there's room for 75 dogs and 75 handlers, so the city encourages pre-registration. For more information call 301-474-6124

Pooch Plunge Rules

• Handlers must pick-up and properly dispose of dog(s) feces.

• Handlers must render first-aid if their dog is injured and notify other handlers if their dog inflicts injury.

• Handlers must come dressed to swim if they plan to enter the pool with dog.

• No glass containers.

• Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated.

• Pool safety and health rules will be enforced.

The following will not be permitted for any reason:

• Dog treats or training treats

• Aggressive dogs

• Dogs in their heat cycle

• Dogs under (4) months of age

• Animals other than dogs

• Injured or sick dogs