SUN EDITORIAL:

On fearing dog parks

Henderson homeowners expressing concerns that likely would never be experienced

Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009 | 2:08 a.m.

Normally when a proposed neighborhood development motivates residents to band together in opposition, it is because the development is on the order of a concrete batch plant — something that raises issues of air and water quality, 24-hour noise, piles of waste, unsightliness or heavy traffic.

But that is not the case with some homeowners in Henderson. They are upset about a dog park proposed by the city as part of an expansion of Arroyo Grande Sports Complex.

The homeowners have every right to voice concerns. But what they are saying is in contrast to what is experienced at the many well-designed dog parks in the Las Vegas Valley.

In a story in Thursday’s paper, the Las Vegas Sun’s Mike Trask reported that the homeowners fear the park will generate noise and odors that will disturb the tranquility of their homes, the nearest of which is more than 150 feet from the proposed park. We would find it reasonable for the neighbors to petition for more separation. But we would find it unreasonable if they insist the dog park not be built.

One resident predicted her property’s value would fall to “zero” if the park were approved.

Yet a nearby dog park is a desired amenity for many people in the market for homes. As for smells, one would have to have the nose of a bloodhound to detect a dog’s business from 150 feet away. And people enjoying the parks are almost always responsible adults who pick up after their dogs.

The small amount of barking in dog parks is barely audible, if audible at all, from 150 feet away.

Fenced-in dog areas, in our view, add quality to neighborhood parks. They provide a place not only for pets to socialize, but also for people to socialize. Lasting friendships have been made among neighbors who first met at a dog park.

Our view is that dogs chasing tennis balls in a safe, well-designed park is a normal neighborhood scene, one to be enjoyed, not feared.

Discussion: 2 comments so far…

By fremmasmind

1/10/09 at 7:04 a.m.

Suggest removal

Yeah peaceful, that's an understatement. I was talking to my son yesterday and he was telling me he took his dog to a dog park and his dog was attacked by a male bigger than his. He was trying to seperate the two dogs(which wasn't a very safe thing to do) and he got his hand ripped open by the unknown male dog. It sounds like a dog park would be a very healthy area for dogs and owners, but the reality is one never knows what to expect around the corner.
By Eagle5001

1/10/09 at 9:50 p.m.

Suggest removal

Frem,

Of course you never know what will happen in a dog park. It's a shame what happened to your boy, dogs that aggressive shouldn't be out there. I hope he asked for an updated copy of the dog's rabies and vaccination shot records.

Unfortunately, running into aggressive dogs like that is a risk every owner must choose whether or not to take. You must be vigilant in watching for the signs of a possible attack, even when your experienced it can be easy to miss the slightest sign. Chances are the owner was/is already aware of the dogs temperment and capability for violence. A dog that aggressive should stay home.

Most people at the dog parks are responsible owners though (even though unfortunate accidents can/do occur), but most of them do keep a careful and close watch on what their dogs are doing and keep a watch out for issues whether it involve their dogs or another persons dogs. I've got two dogs myself, a 10 lb chihuahua and a 90 lb shepard/lab/chow mix. The mix is friendly enough, except he is getting tempermental in his old age. He does not do well around unknown dogs or unknown people, he doesn't go to the dog parks. My runt, the chihuahua, is great with people and dogs, so I have taken him to the dog park on several occassions. But at the first sign of trouble from another dog or from my dog, and we're gone.

Like with anything else, there is a great deal of responsibility involved, it is a place where it is best that experienced dog owners only get involved. It's a shame idiots who do not think right also attend the parks. It's all about knowing the signs and watching for the signs as well as knowing your dog's temperment. It's not easy and is never 100% accurate, but with proper planning, a watchful eye, and conscience decision making, it can be a fun experience. Hope your boy's hand heals