Community needs to plan dog park

I am the proud companion of a beautiful Husky mix named Gracie. We were lucky to have spent her younger years in an ocean-side town where leash laws on the beach were loosely observed. However, we did a good share of snowbirding and sought out dog parks along the way.

The best dog park and all-out favorite was in Havasu, Ariz. It was planned with both dogs and their people in mind. A wide walking/jogging path is on the perimeter, as well as sheltered seating. (Shelter was from the sun there.) The center has grass and some packed dirt areas and large concrete blocks and tunnels for the dogs to climb on. There are various-sized wading pools set around and a grassy hill on one end.

The park was well used by locals as well as travelers and every time I stopped there I felt like I was connecting up with old friends. Of course I was known as Gracie’s mom and everyone else was the dad or mom of their best friend. Most cities, Everett included, are not planning dog parks for anything more than a “poo-stop.” Having a place for our dogs to go out at their own pace and let us visit or walk or jog as we want is a good thing for all, seniors, kids, locals and travelers. Let’s start giving some thought to what a dog park might be.

Janis Hoover
Everett

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