Although Piratesville Splash Pad is typically closed after Labor Day, it will be open to special furry, four-legged visitors and their owners one last time for the season. The City of Hartsville Parks and Recreation Department will host the Dog Days of Summer as a fundraiser for the upcoming dedicated Hartsville Dog Park and will give dogs the rare chance to run around and cool off in the fountains, geysers, and dumping buckets. Owners will be required to fill out a waiver before entering the event. Admission for the event is $10 per family, although additional donations are appreciated. The event will take place on Sunday, September 18th from 2 to 5pm at Byerly Park, Piratesville Splash Pad at 1109 14th St. and is open to the public.

All four-legged friends must be up to date on their vaccinations to enter the event. Female dogs in heat and puppies under the age of six months old will not be allowed to enter. All pet handlers must be 18 years or older, or accompanied by an adult. Handlers are limited to no more than two dogs. Upon arrival, dogs must remain on their leash until they enter the event; once they enter they will then be allowed to run around off leash. Owners are encouraged to walk their dog around the park to help him or her relieve themselves prior to entering the event. All owners are expected to clean up after and supervise their dogs while they are at the event. Owners are also encouraged to not trim their dog’s nails prior to the event as the dogs will be on concrete and it could wear on their nails quickly. Outside food and drinks, for dogs and humans, will not be allowed inside the event. However, concessions will be available for human visitors and must be eaten in the concession area. Drinking water will be available to dogs throughout the event.

For more information on the event, contact Beth Tripp, beth.tripp@hartsvillesc.gov or 843.339.2878.