Main | Fox 17 at Cambridge Park! »

November 11, 2002

Grand Rapids Dog Park Petition

This petition, supported by the undersigned, is directed to the Grand Rapids City Commission, the Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department, and other interested city officials. Its goal is to support the construction of an enclosed dog park within the Grand Rapids city limits.

Grand Rapids city ordinance mandates that dogs be kept on a leash in public areas for the protection of fellow residents, as well as the dogs themselves. However, many cities across the United States have been operating off-leash dog parks for as long as 25 years with great success. This includes several parks in the eastern part of the state. We would like to add Grand Rapids to these progressive communities.

Just as other taxpayers enjoy public swimming pools, tennis courts, jogging trails, golf courses, and playgrounds, dog owners need a place to exercise and enjoy their pets in an off-leash environment. With so many dog owners in the Grand Rapids area (37% of households in America own dogs) we urge our local leaders and politicians to create an off-leash dog park for the following reasons:


Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Grand Rapids Dog Park Enthusiasts

Posted by Gwen at November 11, 2002 08:04 PM

Comments

Yes to the dog park!

Posted by: Marie Bolen at November 12, 2002 02:26 AM

We are for the dog park.

Posted by: Shawn Bolen at November 12, 2002 02:27 AM

This is the best idea I've heard for our parks in the 15 plus years I've had dogs. You will have all my support and at least a dozen other friends of mine who are dedicated dog owners. Keep up the great work and please keep me posted. :)

Posted by: Craig Horning at November 12, 2002 07:56 AM

What an amazing idea! It's about time that Grand Rapids creates a place that dog owners can allow their dogs to run off leash. Great plan. I totally support the plan. Please keep me posted on the progress.

Posted by: Bryan Nader at November 12, 2002 08:01 AM

Yes!!! I strongly support the creation of a GR dog park. I recently moved here from Vienna, Virginia, which added a dog park 2 years ago. This park is a great addition which contributed to the community in many positive ways. Please keep me posted.

Posted by: Steve Sweetland at November 12, 2002 08:13 AM

I've never been much of an activist but I'll definitely change that for this issue! For those of us without children, dogs ARE our kids and it is just as important for them to have a safe place to play as it is for human kids! You can count on us to help with the effort!

Posted by: Molly Detweiler at November 12, 2002 09:00 AM

Yes! My husband and I thoroughly support the idea of a dog park. We recently moved from the east side of the state where there are several parks. To be able to let our dog - who loves to run and play - off the leash would be so wonderful. Good luck and thank you for taking on this exciting initiative! Please let me know how we can help.

Posted by: Katie at November 12, 2002 09:12 AM

Sign us up. We've favored this for a long time, and are glad to see you taking action.

Posted by: Tom and Anne Logan at November 12, 2002 09:23 AM

I will be glad to provide any support needed to get the GR Dog Park "legitimized". I've been going to the park for 6 years and both my dog and I have made great, long lasting friendships. Thanks for all your hardwork on this very important issue!

Posted by: Julie Davidson at November 12, 2002 10:46 AM

Thank you!! I can't believe a city of Grand Rapids size does not have a dog park. Whatever I can do to help, please let me know.

Posted by: julie dehaan at November 12, 2002 12:14 PM

Such a common sense idea, it is almost an insult to now have to fight for the establishment of a dog park when before "improvements" were added, it happened so naturally. Is it not true that after Cambridge Park is improved we can still run our animals there?

Charles EGR

Posted by: Charles Gilbert at November 12, 2002 12:19 PM

This is a Great Idea!!! I have 2 dogs, and we mostly hike during the summer and for most of the hike they are off their leashes. A dog park would be wonderful to have in our city. Go dog park Go!!

Posted by: wendy radaz at November 12, 2002 03:17 PM

Grand Rapids needs a dog park! Cities are concerned with skating parks, softball fields and playgrounds in parks. These are all important and admirable goals. However, a large segment of Grand Rapids' population has dogs (I plan on getting a puppy this coming Spring) and these animals need a place to run, socialize and play. It also gives dog owners and lovers a place to meet, and it gives these animals (especially the larger breeds) needed exercise and energy release. As a Grand Rapids voter and taxpayer, I strongly support this park and encourage the city comissioners to do the same!

Posted by: Tim Cary at November 12, 2002 03:27 PM

Finally! My husband and I are very supportive of the idea of a dog park in Grand Rapids. Our dog loves to interact with other dogs and it is such a joy to see them play and run together. Our yard doesn't have the room that he needs to run and play, exercising him on a leash doesn't expend all of his energy either, an off leash area is just what we need. We'll sign the petition and tell our friends to do so too!

Posted by: Megan Goodrich at November 12, 2002 04:15 PM

My husband and I are in favor of the dog park. Please keep us updated on the issue. Thanks!

Posted by: Kristi Sheffer at November 12, 2002 06:31 PM

I have friends in other states that have great fun at dog parks. I would be willing to support the idea.

Posted by: Sally at November 12, 2002 07:46 PM

What a great idea! I am for a dog park. Our neighborhood does not allow fences so the only exercise our dog can get is on leash. She loves to run and play off leash. A plan for a dog park would have my full support.

Posted by: Yolanda Metcalf at November 12, 2002 10:44 PM

You might mention in the petition something regarding that having a dogpark would help to make other parks cleaner since the dog's would not be defecating in the park. Irresponsible owners not picking up dog poop is the NUMBER ONE REASON, non-dog owners give as a reason to limit access to recreational areas. With a dogpark, the poop would be inside the park, and I am sure, other owners would make sure that those owners who don't pick up after their dogs, would be "educated".

Posted by: Michael Makowski at November 12, 2002 11:07 PM

I think one of the greatest points made was that of socialization! In a society where people fear "agressive breed dogs" - how much better can we help do dispell this believe AND help prevent this occurance than to have a place where dogs can learn from other dogs, and owners can learn from other owners! Socialization of dogs is one of the best things than can be done for them as they grow and learn!

I too, am envious of the east side of the state and their numerous dog parks! Please, GR, let us join in the fun too!

Posted by: Rebecca Spratke at November 13, 2002 08:18 AM

A dog park would be a great asset to the Grand Rapids community!

Posted by: Amy Cook at November 13, 2002 08:31 AM

This sounds great!! It highlights all of our points and is applicable to even the non-current dog owner. I hope this works!!

Posted by: Abby Sutter at November 13, 2002 08:59 AM

I would be in full support of a dog park. My brother has one close to his house in Illinois and they take advantage of it all the time. Our dog has room to roam around but needs the interaction with other dogs to release all of his energy. He simply gets bored with out the companionship.

Posted by: Sarah Syswerda at November 13, 2002 09:35 AM

I'm all for the dog park. It's about time Grand Rapids has one. Thanks!

Posted by: Lori Phillips at November 13, 2002 11:43 AM

I'm all for the dog park!

Posted by: Tina Pribbernow at November 13, 2002 12:35 PM

I think a dog park in G.R. is a great idea - Probably one of the best ways to convince the "powers that be" is to have documented examples of other dog parks in the country that are running smoothly (get signed letters from local gov'ts where these parks exist). It's hard to turn down an idea that has already been proven to work!

Posted by: Pam at November 13, 2002 02:31 PM

I am 100% in favor of having a designated park space for off-leash dogs! It makes such good sense and solves so many problems for both dog owners and park users. I know lots of other dog owners who are also in favor of this. I believe that most dogs need to run in order to be healthy and happy and I'm tired of feeling like a criminal for allowing my dogs to be off -leash. I'm willing to help move this project forward! Mary Jo Thiel, Fritzie, and Kennedy.

Posted by: Mary Jo Thiel at November 13, 2002 02:35 PM

I think a dog park is well overdue here in Grand Rapids. Since we are the second biggest city in the state there is really no excuse that we don't have a park here for our canine companions.

Posted by: Elizabeth Fahnenstiel at November 13, 2002 03:33 PM

It would be a wonderful activity for people and dogs alike. Please consider this as many of us love our dogs as we do family. This gives us a chance to interact with them and our own 'people' family more

Posted by: Jeff Nelson at November 13, 2002 06:08 PM

I think the petition does a great job summarizing the reasons to allow a place for dogs to play, socialize, exercise, and learn. Nice job to the author(s) of the petition!

Posted by: Joe Pellerito at November 13, 2002 09:48 PM

I would love to see a dog park in Grand Rapids.There are so many parks and play grounds where children can play.My dogs are my children and always have to be on a leash.I think they deserve an area where they can have fun and meet other dogs and their owners.Well socialized dogs cause less problems.

Posted by: Judy at November 14, 2002 11:16 AM

I really hope that Grand Rapids recognizes the need for a dog park. It would be a great addition to the city.

Posted by: Nichole Peplinski at November 14, 2002 11:36 AM

A dog park would be a great addition to the Grand Rapids area. It would promote enhanced behaviors among people and dogs alike.

Posted by: Melinda J at November 14, 2002 11:50 AM

This is a great idea for dogs to socialize and have room to run an play.

Posted by: Annette Hagman at November 14, 2002 12:44 PM

A dog park would be good idea because most dogs do not always like to be confined to a leash. Also, People would not have to worry about their dogs roaming around without a leash because the dogs will be in a designated area.

Posted by: Stephanie S at November 14, 2002 01:18 PM

I feel that a dog park is long over due in Grand Rapids. It would benefit the dog, it's owner and the community.

Posted by: Sharon B. Green at November 14, 2002 01:30 PM

A dog park (or parks) is a WONDERFUL idea that is long overdue! This idea has so many benefits for the animals, owners and community it is sure to be a success. I urge the city commissioners to work with dog-park enthusiasts to establish such a park. Yes for the dog park!

Posted by: Gretchen Vaughn at November 15, 2002 12:41 PM

I think it is necessary to have a dog park in Grand Rapids. Without one people are trying to find an area for their dog to play, sometimes getting in trouble because other people don't want dogs around. It is absolutely necessary. I am sure there will be a lot of use out of it also. Please support getting a dog park!!!

Posted by: Shannon McAvoy at November 15, 2002 02:41 PM

We need a dog park here. We have 3 dogs who need room to run & socialize with other dogs.

Posted by: Linda Harrington at November 15, 2002 04:36 PM

There are several dog lovers who congregate on the Northeast side and let our dogs play - offleash. The ares that we play in are near a school and athletic field - we would LOVE to have our OWN SPACE so we don't infringe on other peoples' enjoyment of the great outdoors. We have looked into dog parks in the past and always been shot down. I think you could count on alot of support for your petition from this group of people, as well as the non-dog owners in the neighborhood. I was SO happy to see the article in the GR Press! Maybe this will serve as the impetus for something great for the community.

Posted by: Gwen Kirsch at November 15, 2002 08:11 PM

Finally a city park we will use..It's too bad the the city of GR ignored the obvious use and desires of patrons of Cambridge park...We have been taking our dogs to Cambride Park several times a week for 2 years now. We have meet lots of nice folks at the park, and enjoyed our time immensely watching our dogs frolic and play. Not a day went by when at least several dozen citizens and their dogs visited that park. I guess the saying "you get what you ask for, not what you deserve" applies well to the unfortunate situation of Cambridge Park. Anything we can do to help facilitate a dog park in GR..let us know.

Posted by: Kelly & Jeff Sleeper at November 16, 2002 03:51 PM

This is a wonderful idea. We have a park by our house but it is not fenced in. It would be awesome to have a fenced in park where my boys can run and play with new friends and not worry about them running into a busy street. You have two more supporters for your petition.

Posted by: Shad and Heather Stormzand at November 17, 2002 10:38 PM

We've been taking our dog, Wrigley, to the "unofficial dog park" since she was 3 months old. She's now almost 6 months and has greatly benefitted from the socialization she's received from the interaction with other sizes, ages and breeds of the other dogs. It is also a wonderful outlet for her boundless energy! Thank you for all your efforts to make Cambridge Park an official dog park!!

Posted by: Ingrid Reineking at November 17, 2002 10:44 PM

This is a great IDEA! I would be very supportive of a dog park for my two German Shepards. Being a larger breed they need exercise off the leash. I cannot run as fast as they can. City of Grand Rapids please support this petition.

Posted by: Laura Broe at November 17, 2002 11:25 PM

As a dog bite victim and dog owner, I am very supportive of a dog park in Grand Rapids. I get very nervous when I go to other parks with my kids and owners don't obey leash laws. Especially when Rotts and Pits are roaming free, although the dog who took a chunk out of my arm(requiring stiches far up inside my arm) was a supposedly safe breed "the gentle giants" - a Great Dane. I have a huge backyard my black lab enjoys, but would love a dog park for socialization for her as she is somewhat skittish. I must confess a fear of aggresive breeds running loose in a dog park,though, especially if children are present.

Posted by: sengwall at November 18, 2002 12:19 AM

I think a dog park is a great idea! I have heard about the other dog parks in the east, and would like to try one out here. It gives the dogs an opportunity to get exercise and to socialize.

Posted by: Melissa at November 18, 2002 07:30 AM

I think this is a great idea. My dog is my companion and best friend. I love him dearly but there isn't a lot of places we can go together. Just like any "kid" he gets restless and can only be cooped up in the house so long. We have a small yard, and he doesn't get as much excerise as I would like. He loves to chase his ball, and it's hard for me to throw it in the park while he's attached to his leash. Even though it's a 26' retractable leash, it's still gets caught around his feet and trips him. (Plus I tire easier than his play mates do, I can only throw his ball so many times!) He loves other dogs and I think this park would give he and I a great place to socialize and exercise with other dogs and their enthusiests.

Posted by: Jennifer Higgins at November 18, 2002 07:35 AM

I've been taking my dog to the park for nearly 3 of the 6 years I've lived in the Boston Square neighborhood. Not until I began visiting the park was I aware of all the great "neighbors" who reside in the S. East and East GR neighborhoods bordering the park. We've supported each other through dog adoptions, losses, searches, taught kids who are frightened of dogs how to interact safely with them, shared dog-owner training tips, and laughed much. This is a diverse neighborhood by design and the park is a wonderful reflection of that diversity. The experiences I have enjoyed at the park reflect the best of what makes a "neighborhood" work. Lexington, Kentucky is working on its 4th dog park! The head of the parks dept. says multiple parks is a better way to go to maintain that neighborhood atmosphere and ensure no one park is overused. Other communities have "dog owner hours" in public parks. Let's all strive to keep the dialogue positive with the city and pass on copies of the final petition to dog-loving friends, vets, trainers, etc. Keep up the good work everyone.

Posted by: Stacy Spitler at November 18, 2002 07:55 AM

I am 100% in favor of a dog park in Grand Rapids. In the two years since I got my dog I've wished there was somewhere for her to run and interact with other dogs. I think this would be a great opportunity for the dogs to exercise and socialize. I live in a small apartment and I take her for walks whenever possible, but her leash is so confining and I don't feel like she gets as much enjoyment as she does when she is allowed to run free. This is an excellent idea and I'm in full support.

Posted by: Kris at November 18, 2002 09:20 AM

My husband and I are behind this petitin 100% We take our dog to John Ball park and let him run in the baseball field. What he needs is the ability to run and play in an area more like the woods behind John Ball. He loves to investigate every tree. We have met many other dog owners who bring their dogs to run and play and get much needed exercise. I urge our city commissioners to support this idea.

Posted by: Marge VanDyke at November 18, 2002 09:26 AM

GR doggies deserve this!

Posted by: Kathy Walden at November 18, 2002 12:19 PM

I would love to see a dog park here in Grand Rapids! Our dog loves to socialize and having a place to run and play with other dogs would give her that opportunity.

Posted by: Jessica West at November 18, 2002 01:03 PM

We have a Dalmation mix and no amount of walking will ever tire her out! The dog park concept would be utilized by high- and low-energy dogs alike, and would add a facet of community interaction now lacking in GR. Unless one participates in a purebred dog club, it is sometimes difficult to find others who share a passion for dog-related activities. The time has come for a community of this size and sophistication to offer a facility of this type to its residents.

Posted by: at November 18, 2002 02:36 PM

We have a 80 lbs., 11 month old yellow lab. I need a dog park...please

Posted by: Dylan Wagamon at November 18, 2002 04:05 PM

My husband and I have been wondering if there a place to take our dog to and let her run and play with other dogs. We have a black lab and a small yard she only 8 months with lots of energy.We are in favor of a dog park.

Posted by: Amy Wilkey at November 18, 2002 04:12 PM

We have been taking our 16 month old Rottweiler to Cambridge Park for the last several months. He absolutely loves it and we love getting him the exercise he needs. Any veterinarian or obedience trainer will tell you about the importance of socialization in order to raise a well-mannered unaggresive dog. I also enjoy the opportunity to socialize with the other people at the park, all of which are very responsible dog owners. Please let us keep coming to Cambridge Park.

Posted by: Lynn Elliott at November 18, 2002 04:27 PM

i feel that if the people of grand rapids need a dog park, then the people who want it, should pay for it. this should not be a tax payer issue. and if you compare, this "dog facility" to city swimming pools and/or golf courses, then the people should not have a problem paying to get in the park. Personally, if you don't have the room for a pet to run around your own yard, you should think twice before purchasing the animal.

Posted by: janet at November 18, 2002 06:24 PM

I always wanted to establish a dog park with the city in some vacunt land, but never had the time. I am so glad that caring dog lovers came together to get this started. I think that the Cambridge park is a wonderful place for the Dog Park. It is in walking distance from our house. We have visited Cambridge Park many times with our dogs and loved the freedom the dogs had to run and play with other dogs it was great fun for them. I give my full support to this project.

Posted by: Stan Peplinski at November 18, 2002 09:36 PM

I am in full favor of designating a Dog Park within the city of Grand Rapids. I live houses away from Cambridge Park and think it is great for the dogs, people, and the neighborhood.

Posted by: Dennis at November 19, 2002 09:39 AM

I am BLOWN AWAY that this has been going on and I had no idea. I had petitions signed over 2 years ago, in anticipation to having a dog park constructed in the new Millennium park. I fell behind and never ended up following thru.
I am an all breed rescuer and often have many dogs that need 1-exercise, 2-socialization with dogs and 3-socialization with people. We used to go to the John Ball Park Ball Diamond 4-5 times a week until they closed it to dogs because of irresponsible dog owners. grr :(
I am very much looking forward to helping this happen in any way I can.
THANK YOU!!!!! From the dogs :)

Posted by: Jamie Kowal at November 19, 2002 12:51 PM

I think it would be great for my dog. I just moved here and I am in an apartment. I have a Siberian Huskey and it would be great if she had a place to run.

Posted by: Kristy at April 2, 2004 11:32 PM

I have a beautiful sable and white 5 year old siberian husky who has papers but not registered yet. I would love to find him a good home. If you know of anyone interested please let me know. Thank you so much. He is energetic, and good with kids, but does tend to want to fight with other male dogs.

Posted by: Gail Skaggs at September 27, 2004 08:13 AM

Yes, this dog park idea is amazing. I have seen it myself in Florida. The park was great and it was actually very fun to watch how the dogs interact. I am an owner of a dog and he needs to run so much faster than I am able to. So If I could just let him run free and do what he loves most, interacting with other dogs and people it would be Super!!!!

Posted by: Melanie Fortier at October 26, 2004 08:36 AM

I have been approched by several people wondering about an indoor dog park. I love the idea. My dog can't go to the traditional outdoor parks because he jumps the fences. With an indoor park, this wouldn't not be a concern. If anyone is interested in helping out with this in any way, please contact me by my email. Thanks!

Posted by: Angela Kucharczyk at November 4, 2004 05:49 PM