Freeze your tail off for a cause: NH SPCA Doggie Paddle Plunge returns

STRATHAM — The New Hampshire SPCA announced the return of its frigid fundraiser, the Doggie Paddle Plunge.

The plunge will take place on Saturday, March 18, at Great Island Common in New Castle. Festivities begin at 11 a.m., with the plunge at noon.

“We are so excited to finally bring back the Doggie Paddle Plunge after a pandemic-related hiatus,” said Sheila Ryan, director of development and marketing at the New Hampshire SPCA. “This event is vital for our agency, raising essential funds that benefit not only the dogs in our care, but the cats, farm animals and small animals too."

Each year, the Doggie Paddle Plunge challenges brave and spirited animal lovers to “freeze their tails off” and dive into the icy Atlantic Ocean in support of the New Hampshire SPCA. Participants also known as “plungers” can register individually or as a group, collecting donations from family, friends and anyone who challenges them to take the plunge.

The more a plunger raises, the more they are rewarded with New Hampshire SPCA prizes. Plungers who raise $50 will earn an insulated tumbler, while fundraising to $150 gets participants the plunge’s highly coveted long-sleeve tee featuring this year’s custom dog-themed artwork.

Those who reach the two top levels, $500 and $1,000, earn a plush fleece throw and an embroidered fleece jacket, both from Land’s End.

The event on March 18 will begin in the New Castle Recreation Center at Great Island Common at 11 a.m. with check-in, donation submissions and a hot drink and snacks before the big chill. At noon sharp, plungers run full speed ahead into the wintry waters of the Atlantic.

Festivities then continue back indoors, where a hot meal and more awaits.

Registration fees are $40 for adult plungers, $25 for youth plungers (under 18), and $15 for virtual plungers, and include pre-plunge hot drinks and snacks, and lunch immediately after.

Information and to register: nhspca.org/doggie-paddle-plunge-2023

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: NH SPCA Doggie Paddle Plunge returns: Freeze your tail off for a cause