Let's Build a Leash Free Dog Park in Perth

Many municipalities have a dog park in their community. Unfortunately, the Town of Perth here in Ontario does not have one. In the last decade, many attempts from different groups have tried to convince Council to create a dog park for the community. Unfortunately, those attempts have failed because; a) there is no political will to serve the dog-loving community, and b) it seems that there is no money or funding or grants set aside for such an initiative.

Since dog-loving people walk their dogs in a park the municipality closed in 2020, another initiative should be re-started to get a Leash Free Dog Park in Perth. This time this group is fundraising so we can purchase land and possibly take over parts of the closed park, called Last Duel Park.

In 2021 a special committee commissioned by Council called The Advisory Panel on Last Duel Park recommended many ideas for the closed park. One of the recommendations is to have a dog park. To date, no initiatives and budget allocations have been made to the dog park. It was suggested that fundraising for the idea would spur Council to either match or allocate some resources to the project.

During Covid, many people have adopted dogs, and the population of dogs has grown tremendously in our Town. People acquire dogs for various reasons: companionship and alleviating the isolation factor. Now that restrictions have slowly lifted, people with dogs are looking to socialize with them. Additional benefits include community living inclusiveness; increased dopamine levels in people and thus reducing mental health issues; Opportunities for exercise for dogs and people; tourist attraction, increased local commerce and above all, a valuable addition to beautifying our Town.

The initial capital from the funds will be used to purchase a minimum of two (2) acres of land, preferably the existing parkland. Or, if Council approves of having a dog park, donating the parkland as suggested by the group, the funds will be allocated to match the budget line items for fence installation and other materials for additional trails, benches and paths.

Our surveys indicated that the need of a Leash Free Dog Park is necessary. Your help, donation and willingness to be part of our community mean the world to the Town of Perth and us. We will be eternally grateful.