CHANNEL-PORT AUX BASQUES, N.L. — A redesigned and upgraded dog park in Port aux Basques is allowing pups a better opportunity for off-leash fun and their owners no worry of them escaping.
“It needed a new look and we wanted to brighten it up," said Shauna Strickland, Economic Development Officer/Recreation Director with the town, referring to the recently completed work. A grant from the Department of Advanced Education covered the cost of the improvements.
The new dog park measures 172 feet by 136 feet and features a small gated area where dogs are unleashed for entry or releashed to leave. The inner gate also prevents dogs from escaping the yard when new visitors enter.
The park has colourful bone-shaped benches, two ramps for the dogs to climb up and down, a fire hydrant pee stop, and a water bowl for shared drinking.
It features a large space where the animals can run, fetch objects or just wander around the perimeter of the fence. Owners no longer have to worry about their pets escaping under or over the fencing.
Samantha Leyte, who owns two dogs and is a parent of two boys, enjoys bringing her animals and children to the park.
She was impressed with its size and features.
"I love the size of the park and especially the smaller section," she said. "If there are bigger dogs in the park we use the small area because our dogs are small and scared of big dogs. Our dogs love the freedom to roam and run around."
Leyte also liked the idea of the dog park being rebuilt in the same location on Bay Street, which is next to a playground.
"The location is great because it allows for a big park and there’s also a playground nearby if the children don’t want to play at the dog park."
As the family were leaving, Leyte realized she had forgotten her doggie bags and could not find any next to the garbage disposal cans.
She said it would be great if there were bags available for cleaning up pet waste since people sometimes forget to bring them.
Strickland advises the citizens to remember their doggy baggies because the town won't be providing them at the dog park.
