Doggie Paddle event marks end of season at Hastings Aquacourt

As the dog days of summer come to a close, you might as well let the dogs close the pool.

August 9, 2022Updated: August 9, 2022
News Channel NebraskaBy News Channel Nebraska

HASTINGS, NE — As the dog days of summer come to a close, you might as well let the dogs close the pool.

Four-legged, furry friends took over the Hastings Aquacourt for the annual Doggie Paddle on Monday night. Staff said the turnout was the best they’ve ever seen at the event, which has been going on for at least a decade.

Michelle Lubken and her kids brought their dog.

“This Max Lubken, he’s two. He’s a golden retriever we got here in Hastings. This is his favorite toy, so if we just say Frisbee he goes after it. It was the kids’ Frisbee but now it’s his,” Lubken said.

The 1.5-hour pool session was a good fit for pooches like Max.

“He likes the water. He goes to the lake for regular fishing as well as ice fishing," Lubken said. "This is a new treat to get to come to the waterpark.”

All dogs big or small, water-weary or water-crazed were welcome. 

“It is a really neat opportunity just for socialization of dogs as well as use of the water,” Lubken said.

Admission was $5 per dog. The waterpark is now closed for the season.

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