Dog-gone summer

Written on 08/13/2025
Patrick Munsey


Kokomo Beach closes the season with Pooches at the Pool

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The kids are back in school, and the days are getting shorter. Summer is preparing to take a final bow. But Kokomo Beach gave a last hurrah for its furry friends over the weekend. Dozens of dogs and their faithful owners lined up for Pooches at the Pool on Aug. 10 for the annual capstone to another season of swimming.



For two hours, canines of every sort and size frolicked in the water. Most of them opted for the zero-depth area of the pool where touching the bottom was no problem for even the tiniest paws.




Some of the braver dogs dove headfirst into the deep end, often in pursuit of a thrown ball or other floating toy.




But for a few of man’s best friends, the water brought a bit of uncertainty. They paced along the edge of the pool or adamantly stood their ground as their owners tried to coax them along.




Regardless of their enthusiasm for the water, it was hard to find pups without wagging tongues and tails. They rolled about, chased each other, and did all the things a happy dog does while their owners played along or simply watched.




The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department offers Pooches at the Pool as a last celebration of summer, unconcerned about the furry friends and their natural tendencies. After all, the pool is drained and prepared for winter shortly after the dogs head for home.




However, the close of the swimming season is by no means an end to the fun offered by KPRD at many of its parks across the city. For more information about upcoming park events, visit cityofkokomo.org and check out the Parks Department calendar.




See additional photos from Pooches at the Pool, and even a short video or two, on the Lantern’s Facebook page or group.