Greene County News Report
XENIA — A cast of canines will be cavorting at the Greene County Fairgrounds this Saturday as part of the annual Greene County Parks & Trails Doggie Dash ‘n Splash event. The dog festival, which is held near the Fairgrounds Recreation Center in Xenia, will feature a canine splash ground that resembles a water park, as well as entertainment, canine demonstrations, vendors, contests and more.
“If you come to the festival, you’ll see it’s the families and the owners who have as much fun as their dogs,” GCP&T Events Manager Robin Gregory said. “We even have folks that don’t have their dog with them just so they can watch the antics at the splash ground. There is joy everywhere whether you have two legs or four.”
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 15. Admission is free with a $5 parking donation. All well-mannered dogs are welcomed. Retractable leashes are prohibited.
Special activities and events will help to mark the 10-year anniversary of the canine festival that celebrates the human-animal bond.
Karson, the Wilmington Police Department K9 officer that was lost for two months earlier this year, will be a featured guest. Karson will be demonstrating his police dog skills and will be available for a meet-and-greet with event attendees.
“We’re thrilled to be able to host Karson and his handler, Xenia resident and Wilmington Police Officer Jerry Popp,” Gregory said. “We’re excited for our dog community in the region to meet them, thank them and learn more about their work.”
Other featured activities of the day will include the annual Mutt Strutt, canine costume contest, silent auction, canine spray ground, musical chairs, rescue organizations and concessions. Other contests will include the popular kissing contest and “Can Your Dog Do That.”
The splash ground will be open until 5 p.m. to allow more time for attendees to enjoy the canine water park. An additional pool has been added to the canine splash ground to maximize the enjoyment for two- and four-legged guests.
All proceeds from the event benefit the maintenance and expansion of the Scout Dog Park.
For more information, contact Greene County Parks & Trails at 937-562-6440, email [email protected] or visit gcparkstrails.com.