Boulder ends Dog Dayz dog swim event for good

Context: Every summer between 2002 and 2018, Scott Carpenter Pool was reserved for dogs the last week of swim season, usually around Labor Day.

• Yes, but: The event hasn't been held for seven straight years, initially derailed by pool work and COVID.
• Even after Scott Carpenter construction and post-pandemic, the city chose each year not to hold the event to instead prioritize human swimmers, but wouldn't commit to canceling it permanently.

Driving the news: Boulder spokesperson Kate Hernandez confirmed to Axios that the event will never return to Scott Carpenter Pool.

• "While we love our dog companions, we want to prioritize pool use for the public," Hernandez said.

Between the lines: Boulder has struggled with staffing outdoor and recreation pools for years, and swimmers have decried the lack of both public and private swim space.

• Spruce Pool, the city's only other outdoor pool at 21st and Spruce streets, will shut down a few weeks early, on Aug. 17, as the city looks for cost-cutting opportunities due to a budget crunch.

• With more swimmers expected to visit Scott Carpenter as a result, officials said they wanted to maximize swimming time there.

Reality check: Despite the fun, Dog Dayz did require that the pool be closed for the season after the event for hygienic reasons.

What's next: Boulder officials say they aren't seeking a new venue for Dog Dayz.

• Dog owners looking to get some swim time can go to Broomfield 's Midway Park Sept. 21.