Many University students see a dog park as a means to make their “children” happy after a long day alone. BREC, the Recreation and Park Commission for Baton Rouge Parish, will open the Raising Canes Dog Park in May in City Community Park. “These dogs are these people’s children,” said Kristi Williams, BREC communications director. “We’ve tried to, by population, put twelve community parks all over the parish. Most will have a dog park.” The dog park will be located off Dalrymple Drive. BREC is planning another dog park in the Burbank Sports Complex. Brittany Andrews, landscape architecture senior, said a dog park is a positive change for the Baton Rouge community. “I think if there was something else for people to do with dogs outside, then that would be a good thing,” Andrews said. Julie Perrault, Raising Canes spokesperson, said the company donated $50,000 to the park. “We always try to get involved with pet-related charities,” she said. “We were actually approached by BREC to get involved.” Susan Eddlestone, assistant professor in veterinary clinical science, said dog parks can be a supplement for walking your dog. “Most of us are gone eight to 10 hours per day,” Eddlestone said. “Dogs aren’t getting proper exercise.” Brittany Hoffstadt, theatre and dance senior, said she wants to allow her dog to run and play after leaving her home alone. Allison Martin, pre-interior design sophomore, said she thinks the park is a “great idea” as long as measures are taken to ensure a safe environment for visiting dogs. Eddlestone said owners who are interested in bringing their dogs to the park should be cautious to prevent the spread of diseases among dogs. According to BREC.org, the organization requires dogs to be “properly inoculated and healthy” and warned that “dog waste must be disposed of properly.” Eddlestone suggested owners carry mace with them at the dog park as a safety precaution. “Be aware of aggressive dogs,” she said. “Mace is a good way to stop dogs fighting.” Ryen Carlson, animal sciences junior, said he is not a supporter of dog parks. “There’s no way of knowing the temperaments or health of the other dogs that are there,” Carlson said. “I spend a lot of money keeping my dog healthy and free from parasites.”
Contact Lindsey Meaux at [email protected]