BLOOMINGTON— The beloved annual event, Drool in the Pool, is celebrating its 20th anniversary, offering two evenings of aquatic fun for dogs, and volunteers are needed to help make a splash.
Hosted by the City of Bloomington Parks & Recreation, the canine-only pool party will take place at Mills Pool, 1100 W. 14th St., on Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 6 and 7. Owners can bring their pups to swim, fetch tennis balls, enjoy canine contests and win prizes, all while mingling with local pet businesses and organizations.
Admission fees include a VIP hour from 4 to 5 p.m. ($30 per dog, limited to the first 20 registrations) during which participants enjoy earlier access, digital professional photos, and a “Wag Bag.” Following the VIP session, general admission is from 5 to 8 p.m. at $5 per dog, bloomington.in.gov. All participating dogs must be at least six months old, spayed or neutered, leashed (no retractable leads), well-behaved, and accompanied by proof of current rabies vaccination
Humans aren’t allowed in the pool—but volunteers aged 16 and up (with guardian consent if under 18) can assist with setup, checking in dogs, interacting with pups, supervising contests, and tearing down afterward. Two volunteer shifts each day include: 3:30–5:30 p.m. (three volunteers needed) and 4:30–8:30 p.m. (five volunteers needed). On-site guidance will be provided.
The event draws pet lovers and their dogs for late‑summer fun, marking the end of the season before Mills Pool closes to humans. The shallow and main pools will be available for canine use, though the deep end remains off‑limits.
Who: Dogs six months or older, spayed/neutered, rabies‑vaccinated; volunteer helpers aged 16+
What: Drool in the Pool — canine pool‑time, toys, contests, prizes; VIP hour available
When: Aug. 6–7; VIP: 4–5 p.m., general admission: 5–8 p.m.; volunteer shifts: 3:30–5:30 and 4:30–8:30 p.m.
Where: Mills Pool, 1100 W. 14th St., Bloomington
Volunteer Need: 3 volunteers for Shift #1, 5 for Shift #2 each day
Those interested in volunteering or registering their dog for the VIP hour are encouraged to contact Bloomington Parks & Recreation at 812‑349‑3748 or visit the City’s website. Registration for VIP hour must be completed by Aug. 5; general admission is available at the gate.
