Dog park gets thumbs up

A proposal for a community dog park to double as an education and therapy area has received the support of Busselton shire rangers.

The proposal for a fenced area with lawn areas, permanent agility equipment, shelter and paths was submitted by Busselton resident Elizabeth Muir.

She told the Times, with close to 5000 dogs registered in the shire, and many more not registered, it was becoming increasingly difficult to safely exercise dogs.

The submission to the Busselton Shire Council asks for the provision of a large fenced area and to help with the construction and landscaping of the interior into a dog-friendly area.

“This park would be a huge benefit … allowing dogs to exercise and socialise safely (and) promote responsible dog ownership,” Ms Muir said.

The design would cater for dog owners and the community, and would also be used for therapy sessions for disabled children and school groups in an educational capacity.

“There is no other park in Australia offering this unique idea and only two public fenced dog parks in WA,” Ms Muir said.

She said there was potential for the park to help promote tourism, catering to tourists travelling with dogs, and further scope for the park to host canine-related events such as dog shows.

Council ranger and emergency services manager Tim Wall said he was supportive of the proposal.

“A park would allow dog owners to mix and socialise in a controlled environment,” he said.

Mr Wall said the proposed park would need to balance the wishes of dog owners with those of the community. While a timeline for the project could not be provided, Mr Wall said it was important to get the proposal right as the park would be a longterm fixture in the community.

RSPCA Busselton auxiliary president Karen Hansen said the park would be good for foster carers who would be able to take the dogs to a safe environment.

“Sometimes you just don’t know how some of them might react in a public area,” she said.

Ms Muir said a steering group of volunteers was needed to help with the preparation and presentation of the submission.

Call 9753 1365 or e-mail busseltondogpark@hotmail.com.