The Lycoming County SPCA, iHeart Media, and Splash Cove Pool present the 12th annual Pet Expo! 

Dogs will enjoy a free sundae compliments of Bruster’s!

Kelsey and Kohl will be sharing their dock diving skills at the Pet Expo and Dog Swim. They have successfully competed in various dock diving categories and Kohl just can’t get enough!

This free, fun event will be held at Memorial Park in Williamsport on Saturday, September 9th, and is in combination with Maggie’s Dog Swim at Splash Cove. We are focusing on water safety this year, and are offering water demonstrations at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30. Water and safety demonstrations will include:

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding with your dog
• Dog-friendly water sports
• Kayaking with your dog
• How to fit your dog for a life jacket and other water safety tips

In addition to Maggie’s Dog Swim, participants can expect to enjoy the following highlights:

• Free Bruster’s Ice Cream for pets
• Adoptable pets from the SPCA and area rescues
• Just for Fun – Pet Olympics
• Search & Rescue and Obedience Demos
• South Williamsport Police K9 Unit Demo
• Food Truck Vendors and Raffles
• Pony Rides, Games, and a Bounce House for kids

Additionally, Maggie’s Dog Swim is also being offered Thursday night, September 7th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Splash Cove in Memorial Park. The cost for the Dog Swim is $10 for one day or $15 for both.

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Water Safety Tips, in memory of Maggie

Maggie

Maggie’s Dog Swim is in memory of Maggie, a four-year-old lab who passed away from water intoxication in the summer of 2016. Maggie was an experienced swimmer who enjoyed boating, family vacations at the beach, and anything that involved water and her people.

In memory of Maggie, dogs attending Maggie’s Dog Swim will receive a water-safe pet throw compliment of Maggie’s friends and family.

We also encourage you to observe the following Water Safety Tips:

• Limit Play Time. Frequent breaks allow your dog to rest and get rid of extra water ingested during water play. Limit time in the water to 15-20 minutes at a time.
• Use Flat Toys that Float. Round toys that force your dog to open his mouth wide or go under water to retrieve should be avoided.
• Monitor your Dog. Lean, high-energy and hyper-focused dogs are at risk for taking in too much water.
• Life Jackets for Pets. If your pet spends a lot of time in the water, a life jacket is a good idea. And all occupants of a boat should wear a life jacket – pets included.
• Apply Sunscreen. Dogs can sunburn, too, especially the light-colored, thin-haired breeds. The most common areas to burn include the tips of the ears and the bridge of the nose.
• Teach your Pet How to Exit the Water. Show your dog where the steps are so that he will be able to exit on his own if he is tired. Practice getting in and out of the water with him several times.

Stephanie Myers and her 9-year-old Weimaraner, Bentley, will demonstrate one of their favorite water sports they enjoy doing together – Stand Up Paddleboarding!

Kristin Hunter-Siple and Tank from the Clinton County K9 Search and Rescue will demonstrate a scent search demonstration.

SPCA Volunteers Robyn Hannan and Nadine Sapiente will demonstrate how to safely kayak with your dog. Following the demonstration you can practice too!

Pet therapy animals of all shapes and sizes from ducks to donkeys from Young’s Funny Farm of Berwick.

Licensed and leashed pets who are up to date on their immunizations are invited. One pet per handler, please. The rain date for the Expo is Sunday, September 10th.