Dogs can now join Mud Mania fun with new canine-only event, Mutt Mania

The popular Mud Mania event presented by Butler County MetroParks encourages guests to get muddy and messy as part of the annual, family-friendly fun. But, new this year, dogs can join in the festivities during Mutt Mania.

Here’s everything you need to know about the events:

1. Mutt Mania features doggy obstacles and muddy pools

“The highlight this year is our third day of Mud Mania, and that’s a new event called Mutt Mania. Park customer/owners can bring their four-legged fur babies to Mud Mania on Sunday (Aug. 12) on a leash,” said Kelly Barkley, supervisor, Division of Community and Park Connections at Butler County MetroParks.

She said Mutt Mania will feature doggy obstacles and muddy pools. PAWS Adoption Center will be on site and guests can adopt or borrow a dog for the day. There will also be dog-training demonstrations by Middletown Dog Training Club and participating dog vendors.

All dogs must be on a leash.

“Our pet-related activities that we’ve had at MetroParks are becoming quite a hit, because people really love their dogs,” Barkley said.

2. A new obstacle course for Mud Mania

The Mud Mania event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rentschler Forest on Friday, Aug. 10 and Saturday, Aug. 11.

“Every year, something new is added and each year, the obstacle course is a little bit different. This is a great way for families to get out and do something active, outside of the home with a twist to nature that you wouldn’t expect,” Barkley said.

Mud Mania will feature a variety of mud-themed events, such as a mud slide on the hill that leads into in a mud pit, mud pools, a mud obstacle course (constructed by the event’s sponsor, Stellar Construction) and a Little Mudders’ area for younger children.

There will be a Mud Volleyball Tournament with first and second place awards each day. There will also be other non-mud-related children’s games and activities.

3. Make sure you dress appropriately

Last year, more than 3,000 guests participated over the course of the two-day event.

Durable shoes are required. Flip-flops or bare feet will not be permitted. Guests may also want to bring a change of clothing. Participants ages 18 and younger will be required to have a parent or legal guardian’s signature to be admitted, and participants of all ages will need to sign a waiver/hold harmless release form prior to participation.


HOW TO GO:

WHAT: Mud Mania

WHEN: Mud Mania will be held on Friday, Aug. 10 and Saturday, Aug. 11, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mutt Mania will be held on Sunday, Aug. 12, only from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Rentschler Forest MetroPark, 5701 Reigart Road, Reigart Road Area.

COST: Register online or the day of the event. $5 for ages 5 and older; children younger than 5 are free. $50/day for 6-player volleyball team. Mutt Mania cost is $5 or a 3-pounce bag of dog food donation to PAWS Adoption Center. Motor vehicle permit required. Permits are free for Butler County residents. A permit for non-residents is $5 daily and $10 annually. A permit may be obtained upon arrival.

MORE INFO: Visit www.YourMetroParks.net or call 513 — 867-5835.

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