Dog Park

The Stoney Creek Park Alliance is committed to establishing an off leash dog park at Stoney Creek Park in 2010. This will be an integral part of making Stoney Creek Park a center of unstructured outdoor recreation in a great natural setting. In its research on dog parks, the Alliance realized the great benefits that a dog park offers dogs, their owners, and the community at large.

A dog park could also be a focal point for encouraging responsible pet ownership and the organizations that support that aim. In developing a site plan for the Park in 2008, the Alliance designated an initial area of about one acre for the dog park. An estimate for the primary element, perimeter fencing, showed a cost of about $20,000.

In 2009, with the assistance of area dog professionals, the Alliance developed rules, regulations, a registration process, and operational guidelines for the dog park. Ideas to engage community support were developed, beginning with the “Howl-o-ween 5K Run and 1 Mile Dog Trot” in October 2009. Despite poor weather, a strong and enthusiastic turnout raised approximately $2,500.

To fully develop and establish the dog park, the Alliance is preparing to undertake a broader campaign with the goal of raising $40,000. This will provide for the necessary fencing, water access for dogs and their handlers, amenities, initial operating costs, and possible land acquisition.