1. Dog Park Project

2. Topics Research Overview Park Surface Types Trail Surface Types
Fencing
Park Amenities
Typical Park Rules
Common Challenges
Grants Available

3. Research Info Contacted 15 Western Slope/High Country entities
Total of 19 Off-Leash Areas
All are city, county or recreation district owned
Conducted independent research via NRPA (National Parks and Recreation Association) Forums

4. Surface Types and Fencing
General Park Area
Trails
Fencing
Turf
Natural
Grass
Mulch
Natural Surface
Mulched
Gravel
Crusher fines
None
Hog wire w/cedar posts
5-6’ foot chain link

5. Dog Park Amenities Waste Bags/Bins Benches Picnic Tables
Water Fountains- human and dog
Double Gate Entry
Shade Shelters
Agility Courses
Large and Small Dog Areas
Natural Play features
Restroom Facilities – portable and permanent

6. Common Park Rules No dogs in heat No food Clean up after your pet
Keep gates closed
No aggressive dogs
Handlers must carry leash at all times
Dogs must be licensed
No excessive barking
Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies
Dog bites or injury should be reported to animal services
Children must be supervised at all times
No glass containers
Park is not responsible for injury
Dogs must be leashed outside of the fenced areas

7. Common Challenges
Enforcement by animal control/community service officers
People cleaning up after dogs
Aggressive animals
Licensing
Drainage/Mud issues
Closure when it gets muddy to reseed and aerate (Vail)
Split park to only close half to allow recovery (Estes)
Fence small sections off that are too damaged (Cañon City)
Lack of access to running water
Aggressive owners in shared park areas

8. Grant Opportunities Bark for Your Park by Petsafe®
The Dog Park Fund by My Darling Theo
Petco Foundation