The North Bay Humane Society hosted a 'Town Hall' meeting for the public to give feedback on the vision for the Dog Park.
Manager Daryl Vaillancourt said the purpose of the meeting was to get ideas from the public and to try to make them happen.
Gathering at the Davidi Club, about 20 people formed groups to brainstorm ideas for amenities, operating rules and infrastructure.
Wish lists included: garbage cans, benches, lights, security cameras, sprinklers, a pergola, bulletin board, and a disposable bag dispensary.
A woman expressed concern the crushed stone used for the ground material will be sharp on dog paws. One man suggested that soft shavings of a quality hardwood should be the base. Vaillancourt said everyone would probably like the dog park laid with sod but it would be expensive.
The leashless dog park is set to open June 6.th
It is situated in Champlain Park at the end of Premier Road and will be open year round. There is a five foot high chain link fence surrounding the park with a division for big and small canines.
Councillor Jeff Serran attended the dog park town hall as a dog owner.
Serran has a large dog, a German Sheppard, whose best friend is a Chihuahua.
Serran asked how the two dogs would be able to play together if there is segregation by size. “I came to see what my dog is going to be able to experience. I believe dog owners are going to be responsible in the area. If we have too many rules, the dog owner is going to be stressed and then the animal becomes stressed.”
Serran told the working groups that the dog park should be about having fun.
Dog owner Diana Dechene attended the meeting because she and her dog miss going to a dog park. They used a dog park in Kanata frequently.
“I’m really looking forward to taking my Husky to the dog park so he can play and be social. It’s good to have a secure area where he can run around and be safe.”
Kristen Anstey is a dog walker, sitter and trainer under the business name, Howl and Meow. Anstey was pleased with the open forum to hear different opinions. “I have a beagle who can’t be let off leash so I’m looking forward to the fenced area so he be socialized and meet other dogs.”
Vaillancourt praised Bruman Construction for donating time and equipment to clear the area. He added the work could have cost the Humane Society between 80 to 100 thousand dollars.
An image of “The North Bay Community Dog Park” can be viewed on the North Bay Humane Society facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nbHumaneSociety/photos/a.497561587988.266932.236817012988/10152948155912989/?type=1
