Dogs take over Splash Island for a day of enjoyable and friendship

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCIV) — Splash Island Waterpark opened its gates to a particular group of tourists on Sunday, as over 130 canines from throughout the world loved a day of socializing and splashing round with none human interference. The occasion, often called Dog Day Afternoon, supplied a novel alternative for canines to roam freely and benefit from the water park’s facilities.

“Our whole goal as a organization is just to give back to the community and provide recreation,” stated Avery Marchant, the supervisor on the waterpark. “Our season is over, so we might as well open it up for dogs. The community always has a good time.”

“It’s a great thing that the county puts on – a bunch of dogs coming together and water,” stated Hunter Franklin, a customer on the park. During the interview, Franklin’s canine Kal (quick for Kal-El) stayed close to his legs, not touching the water. “He’s not a big swimmer so this is the one time we get to kinda introduce him to the water in a, I wouldn’t say easy environment because of all of the dogs, but trying to get him out there to meet new friends.” Franklin stated.

READ MORE | “Adoptions needed at Charleston Animal Society Berkeley campus”

Among the furry friends was Ellie, a canine with a outstanding story. “Her name is Ellie now. She was found at the Hudson Mill dump in Colleton County back in January 2025,” stated Kathie Hermeyer. “She did have fleas so she lost all the hair on her back. She was down to 14 pounds and now she weighs about 20 pounds.”

While Ellie remains to be getting used to the water, her proprietor famous, “She’s not big into swimming yet, she’s still getting used to the water.”

Hermaeyer took Ellie into her residence in March of this 12 months after she was in foster look after a matter of months, the place she was taken care of and now’s in her ceaselessly residence.

The occasion additionally aimed to assist discover houses for 2 canines via the Charleston Animal Society. “We have two dogs available for adoption, both Turner and Erin are about a year, year and a half,” Brianna Mickey stated. Mickey is an offsite adoption counselor for the Charleston Animal Society and takes canines to occasions like this usually.

“It’s super helpful for our older dogs because we can take them out for the day and spoil them, and you get a lot of other people to see the dogs.” stated Mickey.

For some attendees, the occasion is a reminiscence for a canine misplaced, and maybe the beginning of a brand new household.

“Our other dog recently passed away, and this event was her favorite day of the year,” stated Haley Mullen. “And especially as people who already know and love dogs, to see other ones – I feel like there’s a high chance people are coming home with a dog.”

The occasion was a part of a collection of dog-friendly days at Charleston County water parks. Upcoming occasions embody one at Splash Zone on August 16 and one other at Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark in North Charleston on September 7. Interested pet house owners can join by clicking here.

READ MORE | “Charleston County Parks hosts Dog Days at local waterparks for a pawsome end to summer”