Off-leash dog park at the Lucas County Recreation Center

To:  Lucas County Commissioners

Petition for the establishment of an off-leash dog park at the property currently designated as the Lucas County Recreation Center in Maumee, Ohio.

We the undersigned believe that establishing an off-leash dog park would be highly beneficial to our community. Dog Parks have existed in many communities in the U.S. for over 25 years and have consistently proven that:

1. Enclosed play areas prevent off-leash dogs from infringing on the rights of other community residents and park users such as joggers, small children, and those who may be fearful of dogs.

2. By their mere presence, groups of dog owners (and their dogs) help deter crime, and frequently act as the eyes and ears for the police.

3. A well-exercised dog is a happier and healthier dog.

4. An exercised dog makes a better next door neighbor than an under-exercised dog. Puppies and dogs which get enough exercise by playing in a dog park, are less likely to create a nuisance, bark excessively, destroy property, jump on passers-by, etc. Dog nuisance calls take up valuable police and animal control personnel time. Fewer dog “at large” and nuisance calls will result in a better use of these highly valuable public servants’ time.

5. In an era where people are often reluctant or afraid to approach or converse with a complete stranger, dog parks bring people together and create a greater sense of community. Dogs help shy people "break the ice". People's love for dogs often creates an important common ground, which as if by magic, serves to break down otherwise impenetrable social and economic barriers. Dogs (and dog parks) are in fact responsible for many a lasting friendship between those who might never otherwise have met. This will help to create a better sense of “neighborliness” among county citizens and promote a better quality of living for those moving into our county.

6. Many cities with a more cosmopolitan image than the Toledo area now possesses in many people’s perspective have effectively established dog parks for their citizens. The results have shown that not only do families and individuals benefit from the ability to exercise their dogs off-leash but that such amenities are a draw to young professionals and innovative entrepreneurs who frequently work long hours, have no small children, and a limited amount of relaxation time.

More than 60,000 dogs are licensed in Lucas County each year. Joggers, softball and baseball players, soccer players, handball players, and many other sports enthusiasts are currently served by our local park system. 60,000 dog owners are not – there are no public areas within Lucas County where a dog may legally run off-leash. Many of these dog owners consider spending quality time with their pet to be their foremost leisure activity. The needs of this large group of citizens are not being addressed by the county and its facilities at this time.

Due to these factors, we request that the Lucas County Commissioners retain the Lucas County Recreation Center as a green space and that a portion of the property be established as an off-leash dog park.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned

The Off-leash dog park at the Lucas County Recreation Center Petition to Lucas County Commissioners was created by and written by Cheryll Reed.  This petition is hosted here at www.PetitionOnline.com as a public service. There is no endorsement of this petition, express or implied, by Artifice, Inc. or our sponsors. For technical support please use our simple Petition Help form.

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