Animal rescue groups to benefit from wet paws

The Waikato District Council Animal Control team hosted their annual Pound Pups Pool Parties on the weekend, which saw 230 dogs hitting the public pools in Ngaruawahia and Tuakau to raise money for Auckland Puppy Rescue and 4 Paws Animal Rescue Waikato.

The annual event is held at the end of the swimming season, allowing the pooches to be the last ones in the water before the Council-owned pools are closed to the public over winter.

“We had a fantastic turnout at both events, and it was great to see so many dogs and their families enjoying the pool facilities,” says Animal Control Education and Engagement Officer, Zoey Jackson.

Every year, the money from our Pool Party events is donated to different rescue organisations who help us find homes for dogs in our Pound. This year $3697.00 was raised for Auckland Puppy Rescue and 4 Paws Animal Rescue Waikato, which will assist them in their crucial animal welfare work.

“Waikato Pound Pups are thrilled to be able to donate $1848.50 each to both Auckland Puppy Rescue and 4 Paws Animal Rescue Waikato. These two animal rescues have been incredibly supportive over the last twelve months, helping us re-home dogs and puppies. This is our way to give back to the rescue organisations, to say thank you and to help them continue the great work they do.”

It wasn’t all boisterous fun and games though.

“We wanted to create a fun and comfortable environment for all dogs and their families,” says Jackson.  “It was important to us that every dog had the opportunity to enjoy the water so the last hour of each event was reserved for small or shy dogs, or for dogs who aren’t as confident.”

This isn’t the last event for the Waikato District Council Animal Control team in 2023, as they’re already gearing up for the Dirty Dog Challenge in July – a muddy fun run and obstacle course for those willing to take up the challenge alongside their furry friends.

Waikato District Council and Waikato Pound Pups would like to thank our sponsors for making our Pound Pups Pool Parties possible:

Anexa, Crazy Wolf, Olives Kitchen, The Barkuterie Box, Wort & Flea, EM Photos Pet Photography, Happy Pet, Kong, Korure Pets, Masterpet NZ, Mutt Butter, Naturally Pet, Natures KI, New Zealand Natural Pet Food, Ruffles Petwear, Scoop Dog, Superior Chunky, Tu Meke Mate, Washbar, Zealandia, Cushman and Wakefield.