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Off Leash Dog Park

The Off Leash Dog Park is Official Open

Ribbon Cutting Opening Day

Off Leash Dog Park

Background

History

The 2020 budget included a new Off Leash Dog Park within Shelburne. Due to COVID-19 the project was delayed. In September 2021, a report from the CAO (located below) estimated the costs for an Off Leash Dog Park. The project was re-included in the Council approved capital budget for 2022.

Goals and outcome

The new Off Leash Dog Park will provide a dedicated and safe location for dogs to socialize, exercise and play off leash.

Fiddle Park was chosen as the location and it will be located in the Northeast corner. This location provides approximately one acre of natural landscape for dogs and their owners to enjoy. It is also next to the existing trail network for convenient walking access to the off-leash park.

Features and amenities include:

Small dog section
Large dog section
Picnic tables
Garbage receptacles
Dog waste stations with dog waste bags
Sixteen parking spaces (one accessible space and fifteen non-accessible parking spaces)

Upgrades to Fiddle Park will enhance the parks use, appearance and vibrancy.

Council’s commitment to the park enhancement is outlined in Council’s Strategic Priorities Goals - Sustainable, Engaged and Livable.

T10 Improve and enhance parks and recreation services

Reports

CAO 2021-09 Off Leash Dog Park Report
Planning P2021-48 Fiddle Park Plan – Online Survey Results and Draft Vision & Guiding Principles
Planning P2021-38 Parks and Recreation Master Plan – Work Plan Overview

What to expect?

Timeline

Site preparation and clearing April 2022
Construction of fencing May 2022
Landscape design and top soil, seeding and benches late May 2022
Grand opening and ribbon cutting, estimated June 2022
The Off Leash Dog Park is anticipated to open for public use on June 11, 2022.

FAQ

When will construction take place?

Construction started on the off leash dog park in April 2022.

Will Fiddle Park remain open during construction of the off leash dog park?

The area where the off leash dog park is located will be not be accessible during construction. The rest of Fiddle Park will remain open.

Will there be dog waste stations available?

Yes. Dog waste stations with dog waste bags will be located within the off leash dog park.

Were any trees removed for this project?

No. Trees were not removed from the site. One small tree was relocated within the fencing of the dog park, and all other existing trees were pruned and trimmed. Large brush and grass were cleared to provide suitable and safe surface for dogs.

Where do I park?

There will be sixteen parking spaces available (one accessible space and fifteen non-accessible parking spaces) along with a bicycle rack.

Is the trail network and Community Garden at Fiddle Park open for use?

Yes. Public access to the trail network, open park space and community garden are not impacted by this project. The area under construction, and not available for use is confined the northeast corner.

General park map

Off Leash Dog Park Map

Rules and regulations

While using the dog park, you are responsible for your pet and must clean up after them. Dog park users and dog owners assume all risks while in the park and the Province of Ontario’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA ). Please follow all park regulations:

All dogs must have a visible municipal license tag and up to date vaccinations
All dogs must remain on leash before entering or exiting the park. Dogs are not permitted to run off leash outside the confines of the Off Leash Dog Park
Dogs must be supervised, within sight, under care and control of their handler at all times
Stoop and Scoop is mandatory. Pick up after your dog and throw waste out un a designated disposal bin
Off leash dog parks are not recommended for children. Children under the age of 16 must be with an adult. Dog handlers must be 16 years of age or older
Dogs must not be allowed to destroy turf, bushes, or trees. Repair holes dug dogs under your control
A maximum of 3 dogs per handler
No dogs in heat, unneutered male dogs, exhibiting sickness, or under 6 months of age are allowed
No dogs with a history of biting are allowed
Any dogs behaving aggressively must vacate the park immediately
No muzzle, choke, spike, pinch (prong) are allowed
No dog toys, breakable items, animal or human food is allowed in the off leash dog park
No other animals are allowed in the off leash dog park
No alcohol, drugs or smoking is permitted on Town property