A dog park for Maricopa–much more than just a place for dogs to run

Build a dog park in Maricopa? Sure, why not? Just put up a fence and let those four-footed canines run. However, that simplistic solution is a far cry from the requirements for a well-designed, off-leash park area.

A dog park would obviously provide exercise and unleashed activities for dogs, giving them a chance to romp and play with new canine friends. Maricopa dog lovers are asking where and when?

At Tuesday’s city council meeting, Theresa Farley from the Parks, Recreation and Libraries (PRL) Advisory Committee updated the Mayor Kelly Anderson and the councilmen on the research efforts of the Dog Park Task Force. She presented council members with a petition for a dog park signed by 175 Maricopa residents, not all of them dog owners.

The task force provided research on dog parks from Mesa, Tucson and Charlotte, North Carolina. Mesa, for example, has 17 on-leash designated areas, but its first off leash facility is Quail Run, located north of McDowell Road off Greenfield.

According to PRL Director Marty McDonald, one to two, even three acres are needed for a dog park. He explained that often these parks are divided into separate areas for large and small dogs or active and timid dogs.

Residents have inquired about a temporary off-leash area at Pacana Park. “Pacana is just not adequate for a temporary dog park due to its heavy usage,” explained McDonald.

“We are on track for Discovery Park although it’s taking longer to acquire the land for a dog park, which requires an HOA vote that we found out about last week,” said McDonald. Discovery Park, scheduled for the next fiscal year, includes a proposed dog park.

What are some of the essential requirements for an off-leash dog facility? Obviously there must be water and shade for dogs and their owners. The park must be handicapped accessible with a nearby parking area and restrooms, as well as picnic tables and/or benches for pet owners. Trash receptacles, signage, and both dust and pest control are necessities. Lighting would extend park usage.

One recommendation from the task force is the installation of rounded corners in the dog park to prevent aggressive behavior and to keep smaller pets from feeling “cornered.”

In addition to these design recommendations, Arizona State Law (A.R.S. 11-1012) has to be considered. It states that neither female dogs during mating season nor vicious dogs can be at large. All dogs four months or older must have a collar or harness with a license tag, and all dogs must be restrained unless they are in a designated off-leash area.

Farley indicated that the annual Mutt March would designate profits for park maintenance and providing some of the extra amenities, like exercise equipment, for the proposed dog park.

“You guys have done great things in our community for animals,” said Mayor Kelly Anderson.

Maricopa dog owners currently exercise their leashed pets around neighborhoods. An off-leash facility would provide unfettered exercise and play for canines.