Kiwanis Park and KWSP Dash & Splash

Primarily visiting for a charity event, Rita and I explored all that Kiwanis Park in Kitchener has to offer.

As a rescue dog herself, Rita was more than happy to contribute to this cause

Pool The main reason for visiting Kiwanis Park was the annual Kitchener-Waterloo-Stratford-Perth (KWSP) Humane Society’s Dash & Splash fundraiser. The team reserves a space around the Kiwanis splash pad and pool, with space for the dogs to run around and play fetch. To take part, attendees are encouraged to fundraise for the society. Apparently 2020’s event brought over 400 dogs, and this seemed to be just as successful, judging by the crowds and queues.

Rita isn’t a massive water fan, preferring to paddle, but Ren Pet’s had supplied balls for the occasion and she was enthusiastic to play fetch whilst splashing around. So we circled the pool as she ran in and out, and I browsed the stands of the sponsors. We also had time at the splash pad and got to meet the other dogs. CTV Kitchener picked up some footage, shown below.

Trails Thoroughly soaked, we decided to explore the trails of the park and dry off. There is a wide gravel path which actually extends beyond the park boundary and ends at a road. We stuck to two loops within the park, and even spotted an Eastern Ribbonsnake alongside the path! We got some lovely views of the Grand River, and saw options for other activities to pack into your day, such as a canoe launch spot, picnic areas and a children’s playground.

Even watching the kids playing was exhausting

Dog Park At the East of the park is the off-leash dog park. There are actually two enclosed areas, each for small and large dogs. We went to the large one as Rita likes a good play, plus it was a bigger area. There was a track in the grass and through woodland, so I did two loops while Rita explored close by, and got to play chase with the other dogs.

Kiwanis Park and KWSP Dash & Splash

Luther Marsh and Grand Valley

Hamilton, ON