Dog Splash Pool Checklist

A dog splash pool event needs more than inflatable pools and a hose. You need a clear registration process, safe water areas, dry access routes and enough volunteers to keep dogs and owners moving. This checklist takes you from venue confirmation and participant information to the final setup of pools, fencing, water stations, snacks and drinks. Use it to avoid last-minute problems such as missing dog details, untested wash basins or signs that are not ready when guests arrive.

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The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

Confirm venue and water station
Check site safety
2 people
Send invitations
Collect registrations
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Check dog information
Send participant information
Assign volunteers
Purchase supplies
2 people
Pick up rental items
2 people
Check the dog wash basins
2 people
Prepare snacks
3 people
Chill drinks
2 people
Print the registration list
Make signs and arrows
2 people
Clear the site
3 people
Set up tables and chairs
4 people
Set up party tents
4 people
Place dog paddling pools
3 people
Place fencing around the pools
3 people
Place dog water stations
2 people
Fill the washbasins
3 people
Set up registration desk
2 people
Set up the buffet and drinks table
3 people
Hang lighting
2 people

Event

Handle reception and registration
3 people
Welcome dogs and owners
2 people
Supervise water activities
3 people
Monitor safety around the pools
2 people
Serve snacks and drinks
3 people
Refill drinks
2 people
Refill dog water
2 people
Collect wet towels
2 people
Collect waste and empty packaging
2 people

Aftercare

Empty the tubs after use
3 people
Take down tables and chairs
4 people
Take down party tents
4 people
Wash dishes and glassware
2 people
Clean the grounds
4 people
Sort and take out waste
2 people
Clear away leftover food
2 people
Return borrowed materials
2 people
Store materials dry
2 people

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Party tentsqty 2
Foldable tablesqty 6
Folding chairsqty 40
Beer tablesqty 4
Crowd barriersqty 12
Bollardsqty 10

Equipment

Inflatable dog paddling poolsqty 3
Garden hosesqty 2
Power stripsqty 4
Extension cordsqty 4
Waterproof storage boxesqty 4

Sports equipment

Dog water matsqty 2
Dog toysqty 20
Retrieving sticksqty 6
Agility hoopsqty 4
Traffic conesqty 12
Waterproof dog leashesqty 8

Tableware

Reusable drinking glassesqty 60
Reusable platesqty 60
Reusable cutleryqty 60
Coffee cupsqty 30

Kitchen

Thermos flasksqty 4
Coolersqty 4
Serving plattersqty 8
Serving spoonsqty 8
Cutting boardsqty 3
Chef's knifeqty 3
Manual can openersqty 2

Lighting

LED string lightsqty 4
LED lampsqty 6

Decorations

Welcome sign
Route signsqty 8
Information boardsqty 4
Tableclothsqty 8
Name stickersqty 80

Cleaning

Bucketsqty 6
Mopsqty 4
Broomsqty 4
Dustpan and brushqty 3
Microfiber clothsqty 20
Waste binsqty 8
Dog waste bag holdersqty 8
Dog waste bag dispensersqty 6

Catering

Groceries

Tips

Confirm the water station and test every garden hose, wash basin and pool before event day. A dry run at least 3 days ahead gives you time to fix leaks, poor water pressure or unsuitable connections.
Collect each dog’s relevant information and dietary requirements before you finalise registrations. Send participant instructions at least 2 days before the event, including arrival details, what to bring and how the pool areas work.
Assign volunteers to specific jobs rather than keeping one general helper list. For a busy arrival period, schedule separate people for registration, pool supervision, water stations and directing guests with signs and arrows.
Set up the pools, crowd barriers, dog water stations and mats before filling the wash basins. Keep electrical equipment such as power strips and extension cords away from wet routes, and store spare items in waterproof boxes.
Prepare the drinks and snack tables close to, but clearly separate from, the dog activity area. Chill drinks in advance, print the registration list before setup starts and leave enough time to clear the site and place directional signs.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I organise a dog splash pool event?: Start confirming the venue, water supply and safety arrangements at least 3 to 4 weeks ahead. Send invitations early enough to collect registrations, dog information and dietary requirements before you buy supplies.
How many volunteers do I need for a dog splash pool event?: Plan at least 1 volunteer for registration and 1 for each active pool or pool zone, plus someone overseeing water stations and guest directions. Add extra help for the first hour, when arrivals and check-in are busiest.
When should I fill the dog paddling pools and wash basins?: Place the pools and fencing during setup, then fill them close to opening time so the water stays clean and the area is not left unattended. Check the wash basins and water stations again immediately before guests arrive.
What should I check on the morning of a dog splash pool event?: Check the registration desk, printed list, signs, hoses, pool condition, barriers, water stations and dry walking routes. Allow at least 60 minutes for the final safety check and for topping up water before opening.

Start this plan in Lizzt

Every task and item on this page, ready in your own event. Invite people, split the work, and see who has done what.