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Copyright by DogParks USA - All rights reserved No portion of this publication may be copied without the written permission of DogUSA Author Susyn Stecchi Portions of this manual may be referenced to or quoted in publications or presentations as long as full cgiven to DogParks USA and Author Susyn Stecchi. 1997-2011-present Page Front Matter-

So You Want toBuild a Dog

Park?A Comprehensive Guide for

Municipalities and Private Entities

8th Edition

by Susyn StecchiDogParks USA

www.DogParksUSA.org

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Copyright by DogParks USA - All rights reserved No portion of this publication may be copied without the written permission ofDogParksUSA Author Susyn Stecchi Portions of this manual may be referenced to or quoted in publications or presentations as long as full credit isgiven to DogParks USA and Author Susyn Stecchi. 1997-2011-present Page Front Matter-2

Dedicated to the dogs I have owned, the dogs I have loved,

and the people-loving dogs throughout the world.

This eighth edition of the manual is dedicated in memory andin honor of the progressive veterinarian that set me on this dog

park journey Steven G. Paul, D.V.M. who crossed the

Rainbow Bridge early in 2007.

It is also dedicated to my beloved Shawnee, whom I adopted as

a 10-week old puppy from Broward County Animal Control in

1992. I had never before and never since been so deeply and

unconditionally loved by any living creature and was taught to

love her back deeper than I thought humanly possible.

Shawnee was my furdaughter and loyal friend for 17 years,4 months and 18 days when she finally crossed the Rainbow

Bridge in my arms in 2009. Shawnee will always be my

Number One Dog, and I am still trying to be as good a human

as she believed me to be.

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ContentsChapter 1

WELCOME WAGGINHow Dog Parks Add Value and Quality of Life to Communities

Chapter 2

NEWS BITESWhat Other Communities Did to Get their Own Dog Parks

Chapter 3

DOGGED DETERMINATIONWhat to Take Into Consideration When Building a Dog Park Design, Facilities, Fencing, Drainage, PathwayPest Control (also see Chapter 15), Landscaping (also see Chapter 4), Parking, Americans with Disabilities ALeashes and Collars, Evaluations of Needs of the Dogs and Dog Owners, Parking Lot Design, Signage (also s

Chapter 9 and 23), Waste Receptacles (also see Chapter 15)

Chapter 4

DOGGONE IT!Poisonous Plants and Mulch

Chapter 5

DOO DOOThe Great Dog Park Debate about Scooping the Poop (also see Chapter 15)

Chapter 6

BARKING UP THE RIGHT TREEWhat You Can Do to Start a Dog Park in Your Community, Political Action Plans, Legislative Contact Dos anDonts, Petitions, Position Papers (also see Chapter 23)

Chapter 7

DOGGIE DEMOGRAPHICSFacts About the Mighty Poochs Status in the USA

Chapter 8

ALL UNDER ONE WOOFHow to Obtain or Construct your own Dog Park Equipment

Chapter 9

DOG-MARules and Regulations, Liability and Application Forms, Releases (also see Chapter 23)

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Copyright by DogParks USA - All rights reserved No portion of this publication may be copied without the written permission ofDogParksUSA Author Susyn Stecchi Portions of this manual may be referenced to or quoted in publications or presentations as long as full credit isgiven to DogParks USA and Author Susyn Stecchi. 1997-2011-present Page Front Matter-4

Chapter 10

BITE MEDog Bite Statistics, Myths, Facts, Studies, Causes, Prevention and Education Guidelines, State Liability Laws, DogBody Language, Aggressive Dog Breeds and Breeds that only have a Bad Reputation, Definition of a Vicious DogMuzzling

Chapter 11

LIABILITY PAWSIBILITYRecreational Use Immunity, Fee Exception on Federal Lands, Private Dog Park Liability Insuranc

Chapter 12

YAPPY HOURFundraising Ideas (also see Chapter 14), How to Run Capital Campaigns and Special Events

Chapter 13

PAWEDCASTS

Using the Internet to Advocate for, and Raise Money and Support for your Dog Park

Chapter 14

TAKING THINGS FOR GRANTEDHow to Write Proposals to Apply for Grants, Funders of Animal-Related Grants, How to Find Funding Sources,Non-Profit Designation

Chapter 15

GREEN MEAN DOG PARK MACHINEEco-friendly, Sustainable Dog Park Practices

Chapter 16

WHEN THE WEATHER OUTSIDE IS FRIGHTFULIndoor Dog Parks Design and Trends

Chapter 17

THE SKIES THE LIMITRooftop Dog Park Design and Trends

Chapter 18

WETTER IS BETTERDog Swims Design and Trends

Chapter 19PAWS IN THE PEWSDog Church Trends

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Chapter 20

DINING WITH (WO)MANS BEST FRIENDDog Bar Designs and Trends

Chapter 21

WISHBONEInteresting Dog Park Ideas and Trends, including Hotels for Dogs, Airport Dog Parks, Underground Dog Parkand Floating Dog Parks

Chapter 22

PUP-POURRIArt in Dog Parks, Miscellaneous Information, Interesting Tidbits and Fun Stuff

Chapter 23

IF YOURE NOT THE LEAD DOG, THE SCENERY NEVER CHANGESStudies, Reports, Background Information, Relevant Information, Media Report and Overflow Photos fromPrevious Chapters

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CHAPTER 01 WELCOME WAG

Copyright by DogParks USA - All rights reserved No portion of this publication may be copied without the written permission ofDogUSA Author Susyn Stecchi Portions of this manual may be referenced to or quoted in publications or presentations as long as full cgiven to DogParks USA and Author Susyn Stecchi. 1997-2011-present Page 01-

CHAPTER 01 WELCOME WAGGINHow Dog Parks Add Value and Quality of Life to Communities

The purpose of this manual is to provide municipalities and/or private entities wplethora of information to assist them in grappling with the issues involved in access to public open space. The idea of a dog park is just over 30 years old inUnited States. The first official dog park opened in 1979 in Berkeley, California. Todathe time of updating this 8th edition of the manual, there are an estimated 1,200parks across the USA, yet the responses of government and the public as a whole often been based on unproved assumptions and principles. The whole area of uanimal management is so new, that the time has come to reassess established prac

This manual will help do that, in addition to providing the reader with informatiohow to actually lay out and construct a dog park, how to submit proposagovernment, resources for equipment and funding, and whatever else I think mauseful or inspirational towards that goal. Many communities throughout the U

States have adopted European role models, and now have safe, legal and enclosed dog parks where friewell-behaved puppies and dogs can play together off-leash. Historically, these communities tended to bmore upscale communities. However, there is no reason why a safe, sanctioned dog park cannot everywhere with the proper planning and, in recent years, public and private dog parks have started to poeverywhere. My dream is to see a public access, off-leash dog park in everycommunity.

What Is a Dog Park?

Maybe this is a stupid question to some, but as I researchedwhat other municipalities and private groups have done, I havefound that all kinds of descriptions have been entitled "dogpark" or "dog run." Some dog parks are wilderness areas orbeaches that allow dogs to be off-leash. This kind usually allowsa dog to exercise, but there is no guarantee that he will findother dogs to romp with or assure his safety while romping.

Another kind of dog park is a small area, sometimes with afence, where the grass may or may not be mowed, typically in acity park and set aside specifically for dogs. Another kind of dogpark is an area that does not officially allow dogs, but wherethe police do not choose to enforce the leash laws. Some of

these areas are part-time; some are off-hours only; some are off-days only. Some are set aside for only trahunting dogs. Some are publicly owned; some are privately owned.

For the purpose of this manual, the term "dog park" will apply to a park which has been designed and whicamenities that make it clear that dogs are invited, not just permitted.

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CHAPTER 01 WELCOME WAGGIN

Copyright by DogParks USA - All rights reserved No portion of this publication may be copied without the written permission ofDogParksUSA Author Susyn Stecchi Portions of this manual may be referenced to or quoted in publications or presentations as long as full credit isgiven to DogParks USA and Author Susyn Stecchi. 1997-2011-present Page 01-2

An Organized Area for Dogs (and their owners) to Exercise, Socialize

and PlayThe benefits of allowing dogs to have access to public open space is not always immediately clear togovernment officials and the public in general. It is important to understand that the benefits apply not only todogs and their owners, but also to the wider community as well as those responsible for urban animamanagement.

The most obvious reason why dogs need access to open public space is because of their popularity. Dog ownerare a substantial group of park users, as this chapter will go into more detail about.

A second reason has to do with a dog park's links to promoting acceptable behavior from dogs. Dogs need to beproperly socialized in appropriate behavior. They also need regular outings to reduce boredom and pent-upenergy at home. Access to a park close to home is the safest and most effective way to ensure that do

owners socialize their dogs, and provide them with ongoing experiences in the outside world. This not onlybenefits the dog and its owner, but also neighbors who may feel adversely affected by unacceptable dogbehavior at home, other park and street users (such as joggers, pedestrians and people who are fearful odogs), and authorities responsible for urban animal management.

A well-exercised dog is a happier and healthier dog. An exercised dog is more likely

to be a better neighbor than an under-exercised dog. Puppies and dogs which get

enough exercise by playing in an enclosed dog park are less likely to create a

nuisance, destroy property, jump on passers-by, etc.

Dogs socialize with each other through subtle displays of posture and behavior thatcan only occur when they are not impeded by a leash. A leash limits a dog's natural

movement, and can even cause some dogs to become territorial, protecting the areato which the leash confines them. Dogs cannot chase a ball or catch a frisbee whileon leash, nor can they run in their natural fashion.

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Local communities should have an interest in dogs that are well socialized and dog owners who understanbasic responsibilities of dog ownership. New dog owners often learn these important skills from otherowners while visiting an off-leash area.

One measure of an under-socialized dog population or lack of responsible dog ownership is the rate of repdog bite incidents. There is no clear relationship between a large dog population and an increased likelihoo

dog bites. However, studies conducted in California have shown that, of two communities with equal-sizepopulations, the community without a dog off-leash area reported the larger number of dog bites. As a matfact, communities with off-leash areas for dogs typically report dog bite rates that are less than sixty percethe national average!

Increased Sense of Community

Owning a dog encourages people to exercise and visit their local park. Taking a dog out also has been foustimulate social interaction with other humans.

In an era where people are often reluctant or afraid to approach or converse with a complete strangerparks bring people together and create a greater sense of "community." Dogs help shy people "break thePeople's love for dogs often creates an important, common ground which, as if by magic, serves to break otherwise impenetrable social and economic barriers. Dogs (and dog parks) are, in fact, responsible for mlasting friendship between those who might never have otherwise met.

By their mere presence, groups of dog owners (and their dogs) help deter crime, both within the park anneighborhoods surrounding the park, and frequently act as eyes and ears for the police (see Chapter 01 Not

Benefits of Dogs to the Economy

Domestic dogs create jobs for:

Veterinarians and veterinary staff Dog food, equipment and supply manufacturers Dog grooming parlors Dog and pet suppliers Boarding kennels Dog breeders Dog handlers Dog trainers

Spin-off benefits of featuring dog parks in the community by:

Chambers of Commerce

Travel agencies Realtors

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Uses of Dogs in the Community

Assistance to the Disabled:

Guide dogs for the blind Hearing dogs for the deaf Helpers for the physically challenged Seizure detectors for epileptics

Therapy:

Hospitalized patients Mentally impaired patients Geriatrics

Rescue:

Victim recoveries from mountain accidents, building collapses, manmade and natural disasters.

Law Enforcement and Customs:

Sniffer dogs for detection of drugs, explosives or other prohibited articles and contraband Criminal detection and detention Guard dogs

Military:

Rescue Mine detection Guard dogs Couriers

The Performing Arts:

Actors in theater, cinema and television

Commerce and Industry:

Advertising in various media Guard dogs Rescue dogs

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Companion Animals:

Companions for single people Companions for the elderly Helping juveniles acquire responsibility by looking after a living being Dog walking ensures exercise for dog and human

Role and Place of Domestic Dogs Rapidly Increasing in Importance

Owning pets has always been popular in the United States, and it has become

more popular over time. Studies conducted in 1994 indicated that 57 percent of

households owned either a dog or a cat, 42 percent owned one or more dogs, and

31 percent owned one or more cats.

Owning pets is part of the American way of life. Eighty-nine percent of present pet

owners and 83 percent of non-pet owners had pets in the family during their

childhood. Fifty-three percent of non-dog owners would, in the future, like to have

one if circumstances permitted it, according to surveys.

The benefits of pet ownership are clear to those who own them and are becomingclearer to those who don't, as more studies and case histories become available.Pets are now being recognized for their physical and mental health benefits, fortheir role as companions and social lubricants, for helping children learnresponsibility and how to share, and even helping children to acquire knowledge inschool more easily.Recurrent Issues Regarding Dogs Access to Public Parks

Dogs can frighten other park users.

Human park users usually frighten other park users more than a dog does, as can horses, bicycles, bladers, wildlife in the bushes, and more. Anyone who has used a park or wildlife trail for any length of timhave most likely had an uncomfortable encounter with all different types of trail users. Equestrian users been startled by bicycles and dogs. They have encountered people who just will not step to the side of a trlet them pass by. Hikers have been passed by speeding bicyclists, had a horse get too close for comfort, abark at them, or a creepy person come up behind them. These uncomfortable encounters are infrequent.etiquette and general politeness make most encounters on the trail pleasant ones. Park users can leacoexist. Banning one type of park user to increase the comfort level of another type of park user is nosolution.

The presence of dogs will discourage wildlife from using the area.

This claim is contrary to real life experience. Hikers with dogs report that, if they are quietly walking on athey will frequently see deer and small mammals such as squirrels and rabbits, and birds. Less frequently,report seeing foxes, bobcats and mountain lions in areas where these animals roam. Residents that live adjto wild lands have noted that the presence of domestic dogs does not seem to discourage wildlife. Many r

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seeing a wide variety of wildlife right in their own backyards. They report that the presence of their dogs doeslittle to discourage deer from eating their plants or to keep raccoons from testing their garbage cans.

Dogs will chase and injure wildlife.

Wildlife rescue groups report that they occasionally have to treat wildlife that hasbeen injured by dogs. However, they state that the problem dog is typically onethat runs loose in an area, not a supervised dog out for a walk or hike with itsowner. Domestic dogs do not depend upon predatory skills to feed themselves.Few of them are effective predators. Most wildlife can easily escape a domesticdog's interest. A dog that is chasing wildlife is not a dog that is under the controlof its owner. If dog owners are unable to keep their unleashed dog from chasingwildlife, regulations should be enacted requiring their dogs to be leashed, and citations written to owners thaallow their dogs to chase wildlife. Since this manuals focus is primarily on dog parks that are enclosed byfencing, the wildlife most likely to be encountered are birds and squirrels that can easily escape most dogsattention.

Dog feces will spread disease to wildlife.

Veterinary database and internet sources show no information regarding the transmission of dog diseasthrough dog feces to wildlife. However, wildlife can transmit rabies to dogs, as can dogs transmit rabies towildlife. A domestic dog with current rabies vaccinations will neither transmit nor become infected with rabieswhich is not transmitted through dog waste but through the blood, as via a bite. Dogs can transmit disease toother dogs, but vaccinations again limit the chance of this occurring.

Dogs will damage sensitive habitat areas.

Dogs that are under the control of its owner are unlikely to disturb the habitat. They may, however, be found tdrink from a water source or lie in it to cool off, but this should not disturb it. If an area is truly environmentallysensitive, then it should probably be closed to all users, not just dogs and their owners.

Trails/paths are too narrow for a dog and its owner to get out of the way of another trail/path user.

Any trail/path that is open to horses must somehow have room for two horses to pass oneanother. Likewise for trails/paths open to bicyclists. If there is room for them, there is roomfor a dog and its owner to get out of the way.

Trail/path visibility is poor. Other users may not be able to see the dog coming.

This is not an issue specifically related to dogs. Whenever visibility is poor, the chances of being startled banother trail/path user, whether it be a bicyclist, hiker, equestrian or dog and its owner, increases.

Limited parking space precludes dog access.

Limited parking is not a dog issue. It is a park user issue. Opening a park to dogs only has an impact if there isno other area where dogs are welcome within a large radius. Dog owners should be able to utilize existingparking just as other park users do. If park usage increases as a result of opening the park up to dogs and theiowners, then allowances should be made for the increased use with all park facilities, not just the parking.

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Personal safety issues.

Many park users feel more secure when they are accompanied by their dog. This is especially true for wowho walk alone. While attacks on park users are uncommon, there is a significant history of attacks, usuasolo park users, all over the United States. While some dogs may not stop a determined attacker, they

usually a good deterrent. Most dogs will bark wildly when their owner is being confronted. They also tenstart alert barking when someone invades their personal space, giving the owner a chance to be forewaThis may deter an attacker or attract help from other park users.

Poor compliance of dog owners with rules and regulations.

When regulations "make sense" and are not too restrictive, people usually havefew problems following them. When regulations are unnecessary, restrictive,unclear or not explained well, people are not as willing to follow them.Increased compliance can be obtained through the education of users about theneed for the regulation. This will leave less people to focus on for enforcement.

Issues Regarding Dogs Access to Public Beaches

Mistaken Assumption: Dog owners want to take over the beach.

Fact: A beach access request is based on a simple principle of fairness: Dog owners should have the sameaccess to recreational opportunities as do tennis players, soccer players, sun bathers, surfers, volley ball plajoggers, bicyclists and others who use the citys parks and beaches. Dog owners have no greater claim thanothers -- they deserve equal consideration as the other users.

Mistaken Assumption: Those calling for a dog beach are a small outspoken fringe group.

Fact: Dog owners comprise a significant portion of the population. For example, there are 15 coastal count

the State of California. Each one of those counties has at least one dog beach. There are more than 57 of up and down the coast of California. In California, the National Park Service is taking the requests of dog owseriously: in Golden Gate Recreation Area in the Bay area, there is currently a federally funded study regaloosening the leash laws on their beaches.*Chris Powell, Public Affairs, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Mistaken Assumption: A dog zone on the beach would be overrun and ocontrol because it would become so wildly popular.

Fact: Although it is quite certain it would be very popular, other urban beawhich have designated dog zones do not have safety or liability problemsincludes Upton Beach in the San Francisco area, which is a small stretch of bwhich gets more than 1,000 visitors on a busy Saturday.

*Rob Ruiz, Chief Park Ranger

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Health Benefits of Dogs for Humans

More than half of all U.S. households have a companion animal. Pets are more common in householdschildren, yet there are more pets than children in American households. There are more than 51 million 56 million cats, 45 million birds, 75 million small mammals and reptiles, and uncounted millions of aquarium

In order to assess whether these populations have any beneficial impact on physical, social and psycholohealth, the National Institutes of Health convened a Technology Assessment Workshop on the Health BenefPets on September 10-11, 1987. After a day-and-a-half of presentations by experts in relevant fields, a wogroup drafted a report to provide the scientific community with a synthesis of current knowledge aframework for future research, and to provide the public with the information it needs to make infodecisions regarding the health benefits of pets.

Throughout history, animals have played a significant role in human customs, legends and religions. Primpeople found that human-animal relationships were important to theirsurvival, and petkeeping was common in hunter-gatherer societies. Iown time, the great increase in pet ownership may reflect a largely u

populations often unsatisfied need for intimacy, nurturance, and cowith nature. However, it is impossible to determine when animalswere used specifically to promote physical and psychological health.use of horseback riding for people with serious disabilities has reported for centuries. In 1792, animals were incorporated intotreatment for mental patients at the York Retreat, England, as part enlightened approach attempting to reduce the use of harsh drugsrestraints. The first suggested use of animals in a therapeutic settithe United States was in 1919 at St. Elizabeths Hospital in WashinDC, when Superintendent Dr. W.A. White received a letter from Secrof the Interior F.K. Lane suggesting the use of dogs as companions fopsychiatric hospitals resident patients. Following this, the ea

extensive use of companion animals in the United States occurred 1944 to 1945 at an Army Air Corps Convalescent Hospital at Pawling, York. Patients recovering from war experiences were encouraged to work at the hospitals farm with cattle, horses, and poultry. After the war, modest efforts began in using animals in outpatient psychotheDuring the 1970s, numerous case studies of animals facilitating therapy with children and senior citizens reported.The Role of Dogs in Cardiovascular Health

The role of social support in cardiovascular health a question not yet resolved despite considerable reseaprovides a rational framework for studying the possible benefits of dogs beyond mere enjoyment and affect

Since psychological factors can elicit strong and immediate responses from the cardiovascular system, m

studies are attempting to determine whether such influences ultimately affect the risk of develcardiovascular diseases. The description of a coronary-prone behavior pattern, or Type A behavior, and itto the probability of developing overt disease provided hope that, with careful training, individuals could exeadditional control over somatic illness by altering their lifestyle. Relaxation, mediation, and stress managehave become recognized therapies for attempting to reduce blood pressure before pharmacological method

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prescribed. It therefore seems reasonable that dogs, who provide faithful companionship to many people, mighalso promote greater psychological stability for their owners, and thus a measure of protection from heardisease. Systematic research addressing this issue is scarce, and it has been difficult to draw definitiveconclusions from the few studies with small sample sizes that have been completed. A selection of theseproviding direct as well as indirect evidence relevant to thus hypothesis, was presented at this conference.

Studies demonstrated major developmental changes in how children interact with pet dogs. For exampletoddlers (two to three years old) are more likely to hit, poke or grab their dogs (behaviors that might beconsidered aggressive) than are older children. Three to four year old children tend to pet their dogs more thaengage in other behaviors, while five and six year olds generally hug, stroke, and massage their dogssuggesting both more sophisticated and gentle physical contact patterns and more empathetic sociarelationships. These age-based changes in patterns of behavioral interactions with dogs are generally parallel tthe developmental changes in interaction patterns that children have with familiar humans, including parentssiblings, and peers.

Examination of childrens attitudes towards dogs reveals that many of them ascribe a rich range of sociaattributes to these pets especially love and affection, companionship, intimacy, and nurturance also are usedin the childrens description of their relationships with other specific people, but other attributes for example

ownership and entertainment are uniquely ascribed to pet dogs. Consider the attributes of companionship andlove and affection. Most children rate their own pet dogs very high on both characteristics while they rate thneighborhood dogs high on companionship but not in love and affection. Taken as a whole, these resultsuggest that childrens relationships with familiar dogs, especially their own pet dogs, are unique and differentfrom their relationships with others in their social world. The relationship with pet dogs typically icomplementary to these other relationships rather than a substitute for any one type of human relationship.Health Correlates of Dogs in Older Persons

In addition to examination of the effects of the human-companion animals bond among children and speciapopulations of chronically ill or disabled adults, there has been widespread consideration of the benefits ocompanion animals for older persons. Interdisciplinary researchers in veterinary medicine, public health, and th

behavioral sciences have begun to explore that health correlates of the human-animal bond and to examine thebenefits of a wide range of dog-facilitated therapies on the health and functioning of the elderly. Thassumption of a positive effect of pet ownership on the health of older persons is based on a growing body oliterature suggesting the importance of social ties and relationships for persons experiencing life changesaffecting health or social situations.

Large scale epidemiological studies have examined the association of dog ownership and attachment with thehealth and well-being of older persons living independently in the community. One major result of the researcshows a benefit of dog ownership and attachment in combating depression more than general illness status wafound among older persons in situations of personal stress who were without adequate human social support

Additional studies collectively suggest that dog ownership may reduce the demand for care for medically nonserious problems.The Role of Dogs in Social and Therapeutic Effects

The use of dogs as agents in a wide variety of therapeutic approaches has become increasingly widespread inrecent years. One example highlighted in this section of the workshop was companion dogs for handicappedpeople confined to wheelchairs.

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Copyright by DogParks USA - All rights reserved No portion of this publication may be copied without the written permission ofDogUSA Author Susyn Stecchi Portions of this manual may be referenced to or quoted in publications or presentations as long as full cgiven to DogParks USA and Author Susyn Stecchi. 1997-2011-present Page 01-1

Companion dogs provide wheelchair patients with a source of social stimulation that is typically more conand reliable than most human companions, including spouses, siblings, or therapists. In addition, a numbempirical studies have demonstrated that the presence of a companion dog serves to increase the quantitquality of attention directed toward the handicapped individuals by both familiar individuals and strangers.

magnet effect of companion dogs can be of significant benefit to the handicapped individuals because res

has clearly demonstrated that individuals with noticeable physical handicaps otherwise tend to be avoidignored by both familiar and unfamiliar individuals, relative to non-handicapped people.Dog Parks Help Your Community

A report by the Delta Society states that one of the top benefits of a dog park is what it does for the themselves. It gives them the space and freedom to run off-leash with other members of their species, all being safely supervised.

A dog park is not only a secure place for dogs to engage in the vigorous exercise essential to their well-bFor some city dwellers, a dog park may also provide their only chance to interact with other dogs and pe

And because a well-socialized dog is less likely to develop behavior problems, such as aggression and exce

barking, an outdoor club for canines may help reduce associated neighborhood conflicts.

In this day and age, when we are all working, [its essential] that we create a place where dogs can gstretch their legs and get socialized in a play group, says Kate Pullen, director of the Animal Welfa

Alexandria, Virginia. Its [important] for a healthy, happy dog.

Dog parks may be critical for the owners happiness, too. Whiledogs are busy socializing with each other, owners are doing the screating the camaraderie. And dog parks perform an even grservice: strengthening the human-animal bond. [Going to a dog is an activity that an owner and dog can do together, says MadeBernstein, president of the Los Angeles SPCA. For many peopledogs really are their only companions. If they can go to a dog pa

gives them a reason to get dressed, go out, socialize, play with dog, and strengthen that bond between them. If that doesnt secommunity need, I dont know what does.

Believe it or not, a leash-free space in your community may also make your local animal control officers little easier. As an animal control officer, [having a dog park] makes it much easier for me when I see off-leash, says Diana Johnson of the Bowling Green, Ohio Police Department. I can make the owner athat we have a dog park. From an animal control standpoint, I think its wonderful.Trends in Parks Benefits Kids, Dogs

Published in the St. Petersburg Times, July 8, 2001

Every dog has his day, they say. In Pinellas County [Florida], that suddenly seems to be the case for dand also for their human playmates, children.

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In a place where children and their needs get plenty of attention, but where dogs are not supposed to stick theiwet noses out of their yards without a leash, there is lately a veritable blizzard of proposals to create ways foboth to have fun.

Plans for dog parks are popping up all over Pinellas. Dog parks are commonplace in other parts of the country

but were not considered here until recently.

If it is hard for you to imagine what a park for dogs would look like, picture this: A fenced, grassy area whereleashes arent required, a water fountain at the right height for dogs, and benches where the humans can sitOh, and a receptacle for, uh, litter.

Thats the apparent equivalent of heaven in a dogs world: a place where dogs cam play and run with their ownkind, without a leash yanking them back or a human yelling at them. People who have visited these parks inother places say the dogs have a great time and that the human owners do a good job of keeping the parksclean.

Tarpon Springs and Largo have been working on plans for a dog park. Safety Harbor already has one. IndiaRocks Beach built a dog park at its nature preserves. St. Petersburg has two dog parks planned and a proposa

for as many as eight more.

Bowzers quality of life is definitely improving in Pinellas.The Power of Pets

By Sally Abrahms

Fifteen-year old Nick Rosenthal of Brookline, Massachusetts, walked into his mothers room one morning andannounced that hed had a nightmare.

I dreamt that I was allergic to Isabella (their 10-month old Springer Spaniel), and I didnt know which one of u

you were going to give away. His mothers response? Of course, the dog will stay!

All kidding aside, theres something between animals and owners that can be magical. While children may growinto ornery adolescents, pets dont have mood swings or meltdowns, and they never talk back. Theyre loyaand lovable, and even if were irritable, they adore us unconditionally. In a competitive and critical world, wherwere always trying to change people, and theyre trying to change us, pets let us feel that were great just theway we are. That also brings out our nurturing instincts, and make us feel needed, worthwhile, and speciaBesides, were the boss!

But it goes beyond ego. Just ask George Salpietro of Colchester, Connecticut. Six years ago, helost his sight from a rare eye disease. Think of this, he says. Youre 40 years old and you donteven wear glasses. All of a sudden, you notice you have visual problems and within two weeks youare legally blind. I had to give up my drivers license and my job as an automotive manager, andthought I was going to live a dead-end life and never earn a living. Six months later, he wentblind. Salpietro, who had never owned a dog, received two-year old Karl, a German Shepherd bredto serve. I like to tell people, says Salpietro, that on January 2, 1995, my opportunity to beequal to others came with four legs and a tail that wags! Explains Salpietro, After you lose yoursight, the first feeling you have is an incredible lack of independence. Since coming into my life,

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Karl has added that element of re-found independence. You have to understand what he means to me.makes me feel as though I can conquer anything and make the impossible be possible. Now I live a norm

just like anyone else.

Karl had been with a foster family until he was 14 months old and was trained by professionals. Salpietro three weeks with a trainer learning how to handle Karl. Most people who have pets become close to them

imagine a pet with you 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, whom you use not only to assist you, but also foand death decisions, such as making sure you dont get killed when you cross the street. At the beginning relationship with Karl, trust wasnt automatic for Salpietro. Id question why hed stop when I would pufoot down and there would be nothing there. But then Id find out what there was a branch overhead tcouldnt see. When I was training, Karl would sometimes refuse to do something I told him to do,Salpietro. I learned that he disobeyed because my request wasnt safe. Hen the bond and closeness starthappen, when Karl became my eyes, my best friend, it was like nothing else in the world.

Today, Salpietro is senior vice president of Fidelco, a Bloomfield, Connecticut-based guide dog foundationtrains German Shepherds. He has logged 400,000 miles on airplanes with Karl (who sits with his master bulkhead) and delivers motivational speeches around the country about coping with adversity.

Salpietro believes its not really the animal that changes the person, but something happens with your attiIt changes and so you change. In my case, the dog helped launch it.

Karl has affected Salpietro so profoundly that he muses on the following scenario: If someone said, Youget your sight back, but youd lose your dog. I dont know what Id do. Karl is almost a part of me.

The powerful connection between people and pets has been examined by physicians and scientists, and are college programs that offer courses in animal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted activities, which are recreational. Some hospitals have formal programs that use dogs, cats and rabbits to work with and/odepressed and scared patients. Animals are also increasingly brought in to comfort lonely seniors, emotiand physically abused and autistic children, crack babies, and even the surveyors of such tragedies as the Oklahoma City bombings. The majority of programs use dogs. They are chosen for their temperament antheir ability to be good companions and interact well with people. Recipients may hold, stroke, groom, owith the animal, and often talk about the pets they have or had at home.

Researchers have documented the physiological effect pets can have on humans with animal-assisted theIn one study conducted by Drs. Alan Beck and Aaron Katcher at the University of Pennsylvania Scho

Veterinary Medicine, subjects had their blood pressure taken when they spoke to a researcher. Then a dogintroduced into the room. The subjects blood pressure dropped when they petted or spoke to the animthey chatted with the researcher. In yet another study in 1992 of 8,000 Australians reported that pet owwere less likely to get heart disease than their pet-less counterparts. Even though the owners in the studmore meat and fast food than non-pet owners, they had lower blood pressure, plasma cholesterol,triglycerides, and got more exercise.

The physical and emotional aspects are clearly intertwined. A study conducted in 1990 of 1,000 Med

patients discovered that dog owners visited their doctors 16 percent less often than those who didnt own A study undertaken in England a year later confirmed this. It showed that over a ten-month period, dog owhad fewer small health problems and took more and longer walks than dog-less owners.

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Why would pets produce these results? The theory is that the animals reduce stress levels and loneliness anbring people out of themselves. People can become more social when they are in the presence of animals. Aresearcher reviewed 25 studies that examined the effects pets had on nursing home patients, and discoveredthey were more alert and smiled more when the animals were there; patients who were physically aggressivecalmed down and allowed people to be near them.

Ruth Toccio doesnt need studies to know that pet therapy works. For several years, the secretary at GriffiHospital in Derby, Connecticut, would bring her two greyhounds to nursing homes. It was incredible! I saw

joy! The nursing home patients faces just lit up when they saw the dogs. The day can be very long and lonelin a nursing home. Some people dont get visitors and its the same routine. My dogs were not medication or nurse or doctor coming in to do another procedure. Ive seen the patients lay their heads on top of the dogand put their arms around them and hold them!

Tuccio thought, How sad. I work in a hospital and I cant share this witmy own patients. Three years ago, she approached administrators, whagreed to try pet therapy after clearing it with the states department ohealth. In the beginning, Tuccio said the doctors were a little skeptical, buno longer.

Griffin Hospital uses only certified dogs, who meet with their owners everySunday morning in the hospital lobby. Sometimes there are as many a12 dogs of all breeds and sizes, ranging from a white German Shepherd toTuccios greyhounds to a Golden Retriever, a Welsh Corgi, a West HighlandTerrier, and a Rottweiler. Some patients prefer smaller dogs, while otherlike the big breeds.

Heres how it works: The volunteers knock on the patients door to see if he or she is interested (95 percenare). If theyre give the nod, the owner brings his dog to the patients bed or wheelchair and the interactiobegins. Patients often talk about the pet at home they miss or how appreciative they are for the visit. Onnurse told Tuccio she has a 27-year old patient who hadnt smiled once all week until she saw the dogs.

Tuccio cherishes a picture she has of a patient holding her dogs face in his hands. Ive seen tears of joy, shrecounts. Dogs dont see what people see. They dont see a broken arm or a missing leg or scar, which mamake a patient embarrassed. Dogs make no judgments. They dont want anything from you and they donhave to say the right thing. They dont expect anything except perhaps a pat. They just want to give love.

The observation that pets are good for people is anything but new. In the 1790s, the Quakers at a retreat fothe mentally ill in England had patients commune with farm animals, which they felt would be more helpful thanthe harsh treatment often used on those with psychiatric problems. Whats new is the reception pet therapy ireceiving. Owners also benefit from the therapy. Its a thrill to watch the dogs bring so much happiness anknow that if I werent there, they wouldnt be getting this pleasure, explains Tuccio.

In prison, there are few pleasures, but one is raising seeing eye dogs and animals that have been rescued fromthe humane society. In 18 Ohio penitentiaries, model patients in minimum and medium security keep their dogwith them until the animals are ready to be placed. The screening process for prisoners is rigorous. Theiwhole personality changes, says Donald Coble, administrative assistant in the Bureau of Community Service fothe Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. Its a privilege to have a dog. It says that the inmate idependable, so it improves their self-esteem. It also gives them a chance to not have to be so macho and

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breaks down that image a lot of guys feel they have to be. Here, they can show their more compassiside. Coble said that the Ohio penitentiaries that have dogs are finding fewer disciplinary problems withinmates than pet-less prisons.

It helps pass the time quicker and gives them something to look forward to, maintains Coble. Its also therapy. The prisoners benefit from having the responsibility of taking care of something. The dogs lesse

tension, too. Theres something about an animal that makes people feel at ease. Dog Ownership and Control of Borderline Hypertension

According to a report by the Delta Society, research of people with drug-controlled hypertensiondemonstrated that blood pressure reactivity to psychological stress can be lowered by the presence opatients pet.

Patients were randomly assigned to an experimental group that agreed to adopt a dog from a shelter in mone of the study or a wait list control group that agreed to adopt a dog after participation in a transcend

meditation program. In-home mental stress tests were conducted. Aftethree months into the study, participants with dogs present in their h

had significantly reduced resting blood pressure (that is, to within the norange), reactivity to stress, as well as ambulatory blood pressure, even at work, while those in the transcendental meditation program exhibitesignificant changes. Lowest ambulatory blood pressure was recorded oday participants took their dogs to work. This pattern of responsereplicated three months after the control group adopted their dogs. Tfindings suggest that control of borderline hypertension can be assistedbehavioral intervention involving a pet dog.

Other Health Reasons for Having a Dog

Pet owners have better physical health due to exercise with their dogs. (Serpel, 1990). Improvedhealth through daily exercise is one of the main benefits of regular walks with your dog. Studiehave also shown that people walking a dog have far more positive encounters than those walkingalone do. A study at Cambridge University found that owning a pet produced improvements ingeneral health in as little as one month. This continued over the 10 month study . Dog ownerswere found to suffer fewer ailments, such as headaches, colds and hayfever.

Having a pet may decrease heart attack mortality by 3%. This translates into 30,000 lives savedannually in the US alone (Friedman, 1980). Research has shown that pet ownership is better thandrugs for reducing high blood pressure, making dog owners more likely to survive after a hearattack than people without pets.

Dogs are preventive and therapeutic measures against everyday stress (Allen, 1991). Pets decrease feeling of loneliness and isolation (Kidd, 1994). Pet owners have lower blood

pressure. (Friedmann, 1983, Anderson 1992). Pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels than non-owners (Anderson, 1992). One

study showed that keeping a pet significantly reduced levels of cholesterol and blood triglyceride(two factors believed to influence the disease). These effects could not be explained by differencein diet, smoking or socio-economic group. This fact, combined with the reduction in blood pressurefrom being with a pet, may make pet owners less prone to heart attacks than non pet-owners.

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ACE inhibitors lower resting blood pressure but they do not diminish reactivity to mental stress. Petownership can lessen cardiovascular reactivity to psychological stress among hypertensive patientstreated with a daily dose of Lisinopril. (Allen, 1999).

Animal-assisted therapy can effectively reduce theloneliness of residents in long-term care facilities.

(Banks, 2002). People with borderline hypertension had lower blood

pressure on days they took their dogs to work. (Allen,K. 2001). Scientific study has shown that the reductionin blood pressure achieved through dog ownership canbe equal to the reduction achieved by changing to alow salt diet or cutting down on alcohol.

Seniors who own dogs go to the doctor less than thosewho do not. In a study of 100 Medicare patients, eventhe most highly stressed dog owners in the study has21 percent fewer physician's contacts than non-dogowners. (Siegel, 1990).

Activities of daily living (ADL) level of seniors who did not currently own dogs deteriorated more onaverage than that of respondents who currently owned dogs. (Raina, 1999).

Seniors who own dogs coped better with stress life events without entering the healthcare system.(Raina, 1998).

Companionship of pets (particularly dogs) helps children in families adjust better to the seriousillness and death of a parent (Raveis, 1993).

Dog owners feel less afraid of being a victim of crime when walking with a dog or sharing aresidence with a dog. (Serpel, 1990). Pets have been described as a social lubricant. Attending dogtraining classes, visiting the vet and walking in the park all provide opportunities to meet and talkto other people. Studies have shown that people walking a dog have far more positive encounterswith others than those out walking alone, with the pet often providing a topic of conversation

Dog owners have fewer minor health problems (Friedmann, 1990, Serpel, 1990). Dog owners have better psychological well-being (Serpel, 1990). Pets can lessen the feelings of

isolation and loneliness and provide a sense of purpose elderly people. Having to make the effortto care for a pet on a regular basis provides a feeling of fulfillment.

Contact with pets develops nurturing behavior in children who may grow to be more nurturingadults (Melson, 1990).

Dog owners have a higher one-year survival rates following coronary heart disease (Friedman,1980, 1995).

Medication costs dropped from an average of $3.80 per patient per day to just $1.18 per patientper day in new nursing home facilities in New York, Missouri and Texas that have animals andplants as an integral part of the environment. (Montague, 1995).

Dogs in nursing homes increase social and verbal interactions adjunct to other therapy. (Fick,1992).

Children exposed to humane education programs display enhanced empathy for humans comparedwith children not exposed to such programs. (Ascione, 1992).

Positive self-esteem of children is enhanced by owning a dog. (Bergensen, 1989). The non-judgmental companionship and unconditional love offered by pets is known to have considerablemental health benefits for owners, including increased self-esteem.

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Children's cognitive development can be enhanced by owning a pet. (Poresky, 1988). Pets can helppeople learn about the continuity of lifebirth, death, loss and griefand offer a sense ointimacy. They are even a way to help couples prepare to have children.

70 percent of families surveyed reported an increase in family happiness and fun subsequent to peacquisition. (Cain, 1985).

The presence of a dog during a child's physical examination decreases their stress. (Nadgengast1997, Baun, 1998).

Children owning dogs are more involved in activities such as sports, hobbies, clubs or chores(Melson, 1990).

Children exposed to pets during the first year of life have a lower frequency of allergic rhinitis andasthma. (Hesselmar, 1999).

Children with autism have more prosocial behaviors less autistic behaviors such as self-absorption(Redefer, 1989). Owning a dog can teach a child about the responsibilities of life and mutual trustBy feeding and exercising a pet, children can also develop an understanding of daily care.

Children who own pets score significantly higher onempathy and prosocial orientation scales than non-owners.(Vidovic, 1999).

Children with learning difficulties can also benefit frominteraction with pets. One study found that the presence ofa dog helped to channel the children's attention andresponsiveness towards the therapist's suggestion - ineffect, the dog helped increase the attention span of thechildren.

Dogs fulfill many of the same support functions as humansfor adults and children. (Melson, 1998).

People who have AIDS that have pets have less depression and reduced stress. Pets are a majosource of support and increase the perception of the ability to cope. (Siegel, 1999, Carmack1991).

Dogs Role in Human Cancer Research

Pedigreed pooches aren't just for show anymore. ScienCentral & News reports that biomedical researcherdog genealogy is making a new contribution to human health. Sometimes it's hard to believe that theChihuahua and the bulky Mastiff are members of the same species. But there's more to dogs differencesmeets the eye. Now genetics researchers can identify a dog's breed through its DNA. This genetics-bclassification system for breeds will allow researchers to piece together the evolutionary history of our furryas well as study their genes for information about diseases that we also get. The different breeds of dogs very different physical appearances, very different sizes, and very different behavior patterns, says EOstrander, professor of genome sciences and zoology at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center,published the research in the journal Science. So if you think about very small breeds of dogs, like the Pekiand about very large breeds of dogs, like the Great Dane, there is an amazing amount of genetics that account for those differences between those very large dogs and very small dogs. The Center was interestfinding some of the genes that were responsible for differences in appearance in size, in shape or morpho

as well behavior between different dogs. Dog DNA is collected with a swab. Ostrander and her team samcheek cells from 414 different dogs from 85 different dog breeds, and found that each breed had a digenetic signature that could be used to match 99 percent of the dogs with their correct breed. The researused their data to construct an evolutionary tree showing which breeds were most closely related. Theincluded one ancient group and three relatively recent ones. The oldest group includes dogs from Asia lik

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chow, and from Africa like the basenji. These dogs are also the most genetically similar to wolves. The breedsoutside this group didn't show up until the around the 1800s. The dogs in these three groups correspond to thetype of work they were bred for (such as the border collie) from the herding group, is known for its agilitystamina, tenacity, and intelligence and many share behavioral traits as well as physical ones.

One difference among breeds is that certain breeds tend to get certain forms of cancer and other diseases. In astudy published last year in the journal Human Molecular Genetics, Ostrander and her team identified a singlegene that causes an inherited form of kidney cancer in German shepherd dogs by studying a closely relatedgroup of dogs. The same gene in humans may cause human kidney cancer, showing that dog breeds could poinout human disease genes. The genome sequence of the dog and the genome sequence of humans differ by lesthan one or two percent, Ostrander points out. It appears that the genes that we are going to find in dogs arereally going to be important for human health and biology. This research appeared in the April 21, 2004 issue oScience and was funded by a Burroughs Wellcome Innovation Award, the AKC-Canine Health Foundation, theWaltham Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.Chapter 01 Notes

The study showing the reduction in crime in dog parks was done for the Venice Beach, California dog park bythe Los Angeles County Recreation and Parks Department, 3900 Chevy Chase Drive, Los Angeles, California90039, usually for the cost of making the copy and postage.

References for Other Health Reasons for Having Dogs:

1. James Serpell PhD: Beneficial effects of pet ownership on some aspects of human health & behaviourJournal of Royal Science of Medicine, Volume 84, December 1991

2. WP Anderson, CM Reid, GLR Jennings: Pet ownership and risk factors for cardiovascular diseaseMedical Journal of Australia, 1992

3. E Friedmann, SA Thomas: Pet Ownership, social support and one year survival after myocardiainfarction in the Cardiac Arrhythmia Suppression Trial, America Journal of Cardiology, 1995

4. J Rogers, LA Hart and RP Boltz: The role of pet dogs in casual conversations of elderly adults. TheJournal of Social Psychology, 1993

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CHAPTER 02 NEWS B


CHAPTER 02 NEWS BITESWhat Other Communities Did to Get Their Own Dog Parks

My studies along with my personal and professional experience have shown that there is no one right waddress the issues that come up with dog parks. This manual will hopefully prepare you enough to have anto most of the questions that will pop up, so that you can defeat protests with solid information and soluBut, as you will see, every community in the United States pretty much resisted dog parks at first. This minis alien to the way Europeans view dog parks and domestic pets in public settings, and is truly an Amethought process. Conflict is to be anticipated by any group proposing a dog park, but knowledge, fundingthorough advance preparation will come a long way towards getting approval and support for your dog Read on to see the battles waged by other communities.

Huntington Beach, California

The Huntington Beach Dog Park was granted by the City of Huntington Beach, California in 1995 for a thmonth trial period. The City's only restriction was that the dog park be maintained and funded entirely byFriends of the Huntington Beach Dog Park, a nonprofit entity supported solely by donations from the commof park goers and dog lovers throughout Orange County, California. Total donations each year average ar$8,000, and have been used for initial temporary fencing of the park, renovations, purchase of t-shirts for reand dog waste removal bags. The Friends of the Huntington Beach Dog Park purchased permanent fencingsmall park attachment to the dog park that is intended solely for "small and challenged dogs;" this group habeen able to achieve funding to fence the entire park, so they continue to rent temporary fencing year-by-Donations and sponsorships are sought for all areas of the park maintenance: landscaping, water, permafencing, and items for fundraising and the actual fundraising events themselves.

Sausalito, California

In 1991, the City of Sausalito, California passed a law requiring dogs to be leashed at all times. After receivi

citation and fine for waking her dog, Remington, without a leash, Dianne Chute led a citizen group that wor

with the Sausalito City Council, Parks and Recreation Department, and Marin County Humane Society to

establish a dedicated, enclosed area where the dogs of Sausalito could play off-leash. During that summer,

volunteers raised funds to fence a 1.3 acre area in the Martin Luther King School area, located on the north

of Sausalito, to be used as a dedicated dog park. In November 1991, the "Remington Dog Park" was officia

opened with a gala ribbon cutting ceremony attended by City Council members, local citizens and their dog

companions.

Although the City of Sausalito provides utilities, including water, electricity and garbage removal, the dog pahas been maintained by its users since the grand opening. Regularly scheduled work parties cut the grass, awell as maintain and improve the ground. Improvements to the dog park, in excess of $36,000 as of this wrhave been made through donations solely from park users. In addition to the original fencing, the dog park

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CHAPTER 02 NEWS BITES


has lighting, a storage shed, a riding lawnmower, picnic tables, benches, a dog drinking water area, and a"scooper" cleaning station.

Coral Springs, Florida

In 1992, Coral Springs veterinarian and resident, Dr. Steven G. Paul, visited the Public Commons of BostonMassachusetts for a veterinary conference, and was enthralled when he saw dogs running freely, off-leash, and

playing happily with other dogs in that public space. He vowed to bring a dog park to his community, and se

out on a four-year campaign to do just that when he returned to Coral Springs. After much campaigning fo

public and private support of the dog park, the City Commission of Coral Springs finally set aside a two-acre

portion of their new recreation area, the Sportsplex Complex, for the dog park, with the stipulation that Dr. Pau

somehow acquire the funding to pay for half of the estimated $11,000 cost of constructing a fence around thi

site. Dr. Paul set aside a portion of funds from an annual dog-related event that he runs -- the Coral Spring

Dog Day Run and Kids' Dog Show -- in addition to obtaining sponsorship from a dog beverage company, and

added personal funds of his own to meet the City's funding requirement. As a result, "Thirsty Dog Park" came

into being in early 1995. Whilw the park was laid out, running and walking trails paved, and fencing constructed

Thirsty Dog Drink Company was purchased by InnoPet Brands Dog Food, and the dog park, at its grand openingin February of 1997, was christened "InnoPet Dog Park."

Through Dr. Paul's dedication, a volunteer cadre of fervent park goers, the generosity of dog-loving donors, and

sympathetic officials at the City's Parks and Recreation Division, the park has expanded and been improved, now

boasting a full dog agility course, running water for watering and bathing dogs, public restrooms, picnic tables

and park benches, leash poles, a dog "penalty box" (for penning up naughty dogs as a "time out" until they calm

down), and dog "airlocks" at both entrances (to keep dogs from running out when the gates to the outside are

opened). The City provides a supply of poop disposal bags, running water, lawn mowing and monthly pes

control spraying. Everything else was and still is provided by a portion of the proceeds from the annual Cora

Springs Dog Day Run and Kids' Dog Show, commercial sponsorships, private pet memorials and donations.

The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset and is free to anyone who wants to use it. While most of thepark goers are responsible dog owners, and clean up after their pets, along with making sure their dog is on aleash going to and from the dog park, there are those who have been irresponsible. These are the park goerswho have caused much friction between the park and the local homeowners. Certain area homeowners feel thepark-going dogs are soiling their properties with dog waste, making the area smell like feces, and scaring littlekids with wild dogs running freely, while other area homeowners say nothing of the kind is happening, and thisis all an exaggeration. Regardless, there has been controversy that is ongoing over this park, not because owhat the dogs themselves do, but because of what their irresponsible pet owners fail to do. This is a problemthat has often been successfully controlled through peer pressure from other park goers who yell at people thaaren't picking up after their dogs or are members of a volunteer "poop patrol," to pick up what others won'tRegardless of how well behaved a dog might be, you can't change humans, and every park will face this sameproblem to some degree. But the same sort of people cause problems in the "humans only" parks, with litterpublic drinking, etc. This park is the first one I helped open of in the role of Dr. Paul's Special ProjectsCoordinator. As you will see in Chapter 06, these sort of trials and tribulations can be managed. Dr. Paul passedaway in 2007, and the city renamed the park to Dr. Pauls Pet Park in his honor.

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CHAPTER 02 NEWS B


Seattle, Washington

The Genessee Off-Leash Area is located in South Genessee Park in Seattle, Washington. A fenced, open ara previous landfill, it has no scenery to speak of except for the glorious sight of happy, romping dogs. The has a double entry ("airlock") gate and a sliding entrance gate, benches, a shade umbrella, bulletin boardoccasional balls and toys for the dogs. Garbage cans and plastic bags for poop disposal are also on site, mavailable through donations. Neighbors do not like the places that dog owners park their cars on, and thetalk by the City of Seattle of shutting the park down so that the former landfill can be recapped

Poway, California

Poway Dog Park is the first park in San Diego County, California to allow dogs to run freely without leashescompletely fenced-in area. The park officially opened in 1996. Bob Burkhardt, a professional dog trainelong-time Poway resident, is the park's founder. Bob brought his dream to the Poway City Parks and RecreCommittee which, in turn, in 1994, made a presentation to the Poway City Council regarding the need for apark. The City Council approved $25,000 in their 1995-1996 budget to put up fencing and signage. Foundeis now trying to raise funding for lighting for the park. The park is open every day, sunrise to sunset, and

free. The park has three enclosed, grass pens, with double-gated ("airlock") vestibules, wheelchair acwater and water buckets, poop bags, garbage cans and picnic tables.

Eugene, Oregon

The City of Eugene, Oregon began its first dog park in 1991 on a trial basis after a proposal for an off-leashpark was sent by some Eugene citizens. The site for the dog park is a six-acre pasture in Wayne Morse RPark, a 26-acre park surrounded by residential homes. The trial period for the dog park became controversthe park became rapidly utilized by Eugene dog owners. Neighbors of the dog park complained about nparking impacts, surface water contamination, and adverse environmental impacts. Support for the procontinued to outweigh its opponents at an average five to one ratio. During the trial period, four other sites established within public ground in Eugene, which reduced the large amount of traffic to Wayne Morse R

Park, and reduced the neighbors' complaints, as well. At the end of the trial period, after a public hearingCity of Eugene decided to retain all five dog park locations. The funding and maintenance for the dog parkprovided totally by the City of Eugene Parks Department., and the City plans to keep dog parks a part program indefinitely.

San Francisco, California

Fort Funston Dog Park is a Golden Gate National Recreation Area Park located in San Francisco, whichallowed dogs off-leash for many years. It is a wilderness area maintained by the National Park Service. Dethe fact that dogs have run off-leash there for over 25 years, there have been periodic efforts to have banned from the park or forced to walk on leashes to "preserve the park's natural resources," even thoughhave less environmental impact at the park than humans do. A group was formed in 1993 called the

Funston Dog Walkers (not professional dog walkers, just dog owners who walk with their dogs) to preservlong-standing tradition of permitting dogs to run and play off-leash at the park, promote good dog ownepractices, and provide services for dog waste clean-up bags and dispensers, periodic litter removal effortsinformational newsletters. The Dog Walkers have successfully lobbied the Park Service for garbage cans the paved trails, and continued to preserve the privilege of dogs to enjoy the park off-leash.

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Gainesville, Florida

Gainesville resident Lynn Badger (and purchaser of the first edition of this Manual) is the creator of Gainesville'

first private property dog "country club" -- called Dogwood Park, Inc. Badger, who owns several large dogs

came up with the idea for a private dog park after attending a dog swimming party. The park is 14-acres in size

and is a private, members only club, like a human country club. Members pay for membership plans from 3

months to 2-years in duration. Non-members are allowed to visit only on Sunday afternoons, and must pay a

daily admission rate for the privilege. The park is fenced in with chain link, has two large dog swimming pools

and several wading pools, shaded trails, "small dog"-restricted areas, "dry dog" areas (no ponds or pools, for

owners who don't want a wet dog to deal with), human fitness stations, dog agility equipment, dog toys, and

human amenities like hammocks and swings. The park has been open since last 1998.

Badger's dog park competes with the Alachua County-owned park, Forest Park, also located in Gainesville, which

allows dogs to walk unleashed. However, Forest Park does not provide any of the amenities that Dogwood Park

provides, nor the safety for the dogs, as no special area is designated or fenced in for the dogs in Forest Park.

This privately owned dog park has been so successful, that a second one will be opening soon!Baltimore, Maryland

The peninsular area of Robert E. Lee Park, located at the Lake Roland watershed in Baltimore, Maryland, hasbecome known as the Lake Roland Dog Park. It is tree-dotted, and offers hilly, grassy open space, plus a lakefor dogs to splash in. City ordinance forbids dogs off-leash and signs are even posted throughout advising doowners of it, but most of the dogs here are off-leash and cavorting. Neighbors call the area "Dog Poo Park," bua poop patrol group regularly organize "Turd Fiestas" to clean up the area and work closely with the BaltimoreParks Department on the park's care and upkeep. The group publishes a newsletter, holds regular meetings andpicnics at the park, and is on a mission to encourage responsible pet ownership to preserve the unofficial dogprivileges at the park. The City of Baltimore says it is open to considering making Lake Roland an official dog

park if they can get the community to buy in to it, but there are no plans to make it official as of this writing.

Sanford, Florida

A former veterans park, unused by lawful members of the public for the past several years, became the site ofCentral Florida first public dog park in early 2001. This park, called the Paw Park of Historic Sanford, has plentyof shade from magnificent trees, beautiful wrought iron fencing, a special fenced-off section for smaller dogs, adog shower, dog watering holes, a community board, tables and benches for human companions, after-darkhistoric-look lighting and more. Initiated by the Friends of the Paw Park, led by Mike Knipfer (using this dogpark manual), and welcomed by the Sanford City Commission, the Paw Park has been welcomed into thisrevitalized community by its residents and residents in surrounding areas. Dog are brought in through the doggie

airlock, then released from their leashes to run free throughout the park under the humans watchful eye

More improvements for the Paw Park are planned, as more money gets raised by the citizens group and as thecity continues to set aside funds for it. This dog park continues to serve as an exemplary example for the rest oCentral Florida, and has set off a flurry of dog parks being established in other Central Florida cities andcounties.

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CHAPTER 02 NEWS B


Savannah, Georgia

A barren one-acre lot located in an area of Savannah called the Starland Design District that was once declbut is now starting to benefit from renovation growth, is the location of this dog park. The Savannah Dog

Association, headed by John Schuettle, petitioned the City of Savannah numerous times for public space fopark, without success. So the association did the next best thing they leased a lot for ten years (actdonor Dale Crites paid for the leasing), which was under renovation at the time I visited it in May 2003association is hoping that this private dog park will be a test bed, which can be used to convince the City topublic park space for dogs. On-street parking is currently a problem in this area, but that should improve adistrict improves. Homes on the dog parks street are actually being purchased by dog loving ownersrenovated because of the existence of the dog park. The park, still under construction, but hopefully to opethe end of 2003, has a very nice entryway, with attractive paver stones. The fence is beautiful and in keewith the areas historic status; it is decorative metal with metal inserts perfect for keeping not only the dogs in but the small dogs as well. It was pretty bare at the time of the viewing, but the City is actually godonate some 15-foot trees and might be willing to pay for the water usage for this park, too. High-speed bhave been have been created around the base of existing trees for the dogs to race around on. Future include construction of an enclosed deck area where the human park goers can have food and the smalwould stay there, but the dogs would not be permitted in this area. A very beautiful historic sign for the

was donated by a local ironworker. Giant boulders in the park are being used as natural a frames: for the Once a month, a bluegrass band performs in the park. Dogs must meet certain requirements before theallowed to use the park they have to successfully pass a scaled down version of the canine good citizenand have current shots; if dogs do not pass the test, they may attend a socialization class, and present that they passed instead. The annual fee for use of this park is either $50 or $25 plus four hours of volunwork on a renovation team within the dog park. I revisited this dog park in 2010; it is still going strong andrequiring membership and fees; parking is still a real challenge, though.

Charleston, North Carolina

Mecklenburg County, the county in which Charleston is located, is one of the countrys leaders in dogestablishment; the organization that works on these parks is fittingly called FidoCarolina. They have six

parks either finished or under construction as of May 2003. I visited the open dog park, Rays Fetching Meain May 2003. I had to go visit the Countys Park Administration Office during normal business hours first, out a Pooch Pass Application, which included information on myself, my dog, and my wacknowledgement of the Risk and Liability I was placing upon myself prior to entering and using this dogfacility. I LOVED this form, and have included a copy of it in Chapter 09 of this manual. I highly recommevery dog park organization require users to sign these, at least annually, before allowing their use of thepark. The County also required that I show them written proof that my dog had current vaccinations andlicensed (even though my dog was licensed and vaccinated in Florida, it was acceptable in North Carolina asas I had the proof). After I successfully completed the paperwork, I paid a $6/day administration fee (forcounty residents; the administration fee for residents, who get a yearly pass, is just $35; note that the feadministrative processing (versus admission to the park) makes the county dog parks remain eligiblprotection under the Recreational Use Immunity Act (see Chapter 11 of this manual for more informatio

liability issues and this act). I was then issued a magnetic access card, called a Pooch Pass (see Chapter this manual for an example of this pass). The dog park is located in a very large community park, and has alarge parking area (which is also shared with a baseball field). I had to use the magnetic access card toentrance to the doggie airlock area, then, once the outside gate was closed, could enter through the segate into the park proper. The park looks like it is about two acres in size, has gently sloping grounds, and

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of mature shade trees. There is a community bulletin board, park benches for the humans to sit and watch thegoings on, a plentiful amount of poop bag dispensers and covered disposal containers located very convenientlythroughout the park. There as a pump from a water well for the water source; it was a little difficult to use thibecause there was no water pressure to help me rinse off my dog after she went sloshing through somedisgustingly deep, large and mucky muddy areas, of which there were two in the park; since I visited the park,

received an update that the county closed the dog park for a few months in the summer, reopening it inSeptember 2003, to correct both the muddy problem and the other problem of lots of broken glass strewnthroughout the park. The park is enclosed with a six- or eight-foot tall chain link fence. There are no publirestrooms inside the dog park, but they are located a short easy walk outside the dog park in a common parkarea. I revisited these dog parks in 2010; Mecklenburg County stooped requiring memberships and fees paid touse the dog parks in 2008. I agree with their decision; they have a large tourist population and very limitedhours of operation, and a significant segment of their citizenry is simply unable to afford to pay to enter the dogparks. The dog licensing requirements still stand (as in having current rabies vaccinations and a valid tag fromthe owners residential jurisdiction). At least two more dog parks have opened since my last visit in addition tothe four they already had.

South Brunswick, New Jersey

The Rocky Top Dog Park is a privately-owned exercise yard and playground for dogs. Located in the histori

Little Rocky Hill area of South Brunswick NJ, it opened in 2001 on property owned by Gretchen Zimmer. The

park is divided into three separate fenced areas, which are double-gated (doggie airlocks) to prevent escapes

Ms. Zimmer personally interviews the members and qualifies the member dogs. The main dog park measure

1.6 acres; the small dog area, intended primarily for dogs less than 45 pounds, measures 6,000 square feet; and

the puppy area, for puppies up to six months of age, measures 4,000 square feet. The main dog park area

includes a dog swimming pond. It measures 25 feet in diameter, and is an average of two feet deep. The pond

is fed fresh water from a well on the property. Both a mechanical and biological filtration system is installed to

keep the pond clean.

Use of the park is based upon a monthly membership fee. Members must prequalify their dogs and adhere to

park rules. No aggressive dogs are allowed. Dogs must have proof of good health, proper vaccinations againstdisease and be parasite-free. Owners must supervise their dogs at all times, and clean up after them. Onlymember dogs are allowed to enjoy the park. There are four separate membership plans available: Access sevendays a week; Access only on weekends and major holidays; Access only on weekdays; and Access only fopuppies up to six months old. In order to restrict access to the proper dates, areas and members, Ms. Zimmeutilized a magnetic access system. Information on the system used at this park, the Keri System, is contained inChapter 08 of this manual.

Vacaville, California

The Janine Jordan Park for Dogs located inside the Lagoon Valley Park in Vacaville opened to the public in 2002The City of Vacaville provided the park property for this use. The dog park receives 100 percent of its operating

costs from donations. There is an entrance fee to the main park of $3 for non-PAWS members. PAWS (PeoplAware of the Well-being of the Speechless) members receive a parking permit, which allows them entry to thepark. PAWS membership is received by making a $25 donation (nicely allowing the dog park to still be coveredunder the Recreational Use Immunity Act). All dog park users must sign a waiver of liability form beforentering the dog park (a copy of this form appears in Chapter 09 of this manual). The dog park is open from

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CHAPTER 02 NEWS B

Copyright by DogParks USA - All rights reserved No portion of this publication may be copied without the written permission ofDogUSA Author Susyn Stecchi Portions of this manual may be referenced to or quoted in

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