The Spring Lake Water Bark, a fundraiser that allows dogs to enjoy the Spring Lake Swimming Lagoon, is scheduled for September 7-8, 15, 21-22 and 28-29 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

During these splashy events, dogs are allowed to swim and play freely and off-leash in and around the lagoon, which is securely fenced. As an added precaution, the swimming lagoon water is filtered, chlorinated and closely monitored by regional parks staff to ensure it is safe for dogs. (Spring Lake is not treated.)

Water Bark is not scheduled for Saturday, September 14, as there is a cross-country race taking place in the park that day.

Water Bark visitors are strongly encouraged to take advantage of discounts by purchasing day passes online in advance. These are $8 per dog for Regional Parks members and $12 per dog for non-members. Pre-purchasing also reduces the wait time at the entrance for you and your furry friends.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at: www.sonomacountyparksfoundation.org/water-bark.html Due to popular demand, Water Bark guests can now purchase a season pass for $50, valid for any day of Water Bark. The season pass also includes a special souvenir dog tag (while supplies last). At $7 per day, the season pass is the cheapest option. Tickets purchased at the gate (on the day of the event) are $10 per dog for regional park members and $15 per dog for non-members. Each guest is permitted to bring a maximum of three dogs.

Parking is free for Regional Parks members (with trailer), while parking is $7 per car for nonmembers. Kayak and paddleboard enthusiasts can reserve boats or SUPs during Water Bark weekends, as Spring Lake Boat Rental remains open this year (SoCoParks.org/Aquatics).

Spring Lake is located at 393 Violetti Road, Santa Rosa.

Dogs are welcome in kayaks and on paddleboards, but visitors must bring their own dog life jackets. Life jackets are not required for dogs swimming at Water Bark.

“The Water Bark has become a real favorite of local dog owners and visitors who travel from all over the Bay Area to participate,” explains Melissa Kelley, Executive Director of the Sonoma County Parks Foundation. “We are grateful to all of the pups and families who participate in making Water Bark such a joyful and happy event and helping us raise funds for our dog-friendly parks. A special “Bark Out” goes out to the Sonoma County Regional Parks staff who put so much time and energy into hosting the event and providing this fun and safe swimming opportunity for dogs.”

The Spring Lake Water Bark is sponsored by Green Valley Consulting Engineers, The Halter Project, Stanley Steemer, AcCounting on Computers, Perry, Johnson, Anderson, Miller & Moskowitz LLP, Taylor Mountain Canine Retreat, Recology Sonoma Marin, Abacus Wealth Partners, Rob DeVenuto Photography and Western Farm Center.

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