Pool season coming to an end in Shawnee County, Dog Swims around the corner

SHAWNEE COUNTY (KSNT) - Time is running out to enjoy taking a dip in one of Shawnee County's pools and aquatic centers.

Shawnee County Parks and Recreation (SCP+R) will be closing its pools soon as the summer swimming season comes to a close and many local children return to school for the fall semester. The final day for the county's pools and aquatic centers will be Aug. 4, 2024.

Sean Zears with the SCP+R announced in a press release Monday, July 29 that a few other deadlines are fast approaching for water-related activities in the county. The evening Water Walking in the lazy river at Shawnee North Family Aquatic Center will be July 31 and the last day for morning water walking is August 3. Open lap swimming will also end at the aquatic center on August 4.

Rounding out the 2024 pool season in the county will be the Dog Swims which are set for August 5 at the Shawnee North Family Aquatic Center and on August 6 at the Blaisdell Family Aquatic Center. The Dog Swims will be separated into two sessions:

• 4 p.m. to 5:25 p.m. - small dogs that are 30 pounds or less.
• 5:35 p.m. to 7 p.m. - all dog sizes, no weight or size restrictions.

Dog owners will be charged $5 per pet per session. Those wanting to bring a dog for both time slots will need to leave the facility and return, paying an additional $5 per dog. Additionally, the following guidelines will be in place:

• Each owner may bring up to two dogs. All dogs must be under full control of an owner 13+ years of age.
• Patrons are not permitted in water deeper than chest level and may not submerge beneath the surface.
• Dogs are not allowed into the deep end/dive wells of the pool. Dog toys are welcome.
• Dogs must be vaccinated.
• This event is a Dog Swim. No free swimming by people is allowed.
• Dog handlers will be required to sign a waiver prior to admission.

Zears also said the Rossville Community Pool will stay open through to Aug. 11, 2024. The new Oakland Pool may also be open through to the end of August depending on when workers can finish putting it together.

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