Braving bitter cold weather Thursday, about 25 to 30 dogs and their owners turned out for the official dedication of the new dog park in East River Park in Hutchinson.
Before the anxious animals rushed into the new 1.3-acre park that includes water service and separate fenced-in areas for large and small dogs, several members of the community and city spoke to the crowd.
Representing the people who worked to start the project and raise money for it were John Nichols and Amy Solinger. Solinger thanked supporters who helped raise the money needed within just six months of the project beginning. She also thanked the Heart of Minnesota Animal Shelter for its support, and handed a check over to Mayor Gary Forcier in the amount of $11,062.73.
Speaking for the city were Forcier, Parks and Recreation Director Dolf Moon and City Administrator Matt Jaunich. They talked about the planning for the park, and praised the efforts of volunteers and workers who made the park a reality just 14 months from when it was proposed.
The dog park is officially open for business, although Moon said the water service will be shut off over the winter to avoid pipes freezing.
Rules to use the park are as follows:
Hours of the dog park are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The park is for dogs, their handlers and those accompanying them. No other use is allowed.
Use of the park is at the discretion of the handler and is not staffed by the city. Owners waive liability to the city of Hutchinson for any injury or damage caused by a pet and are solely liable for injuries or damages caused by their dog(s). Users of the dog park do so at their own risk.
Dogs must be under visual contact and voice control of the handler at all times. A dog is considered under voice control if it will come when called. Dogs are never to be left unattended. Permission must be granted by each handler for dogs to play with or interact with another dog.
Children younger than age 13 are not allowed in the park without a supervising adult. Very young children are not recommended to be inside the park.
Dogs must be at least 4 months old, properly vaccinated and wearing a city of Hutchinson pet license tag. If you are not a Hutchinson resident, a current rabies tag is acceptable.
Dogs that have been declared dangerous according to city ordinance, or potentially dangerous in any community, or that have a history of aggressive behavior, or females in heat, are not allowed in the park. Any dog that exhibits aggressive behaviors must be removed immediately by the handler.
Handlers must remain in the area with their dog(s) at all times.
Owners must clean up after their dog(s) and deposit feces in the containers provided.
Professional dog trainers are not allowed to use the facility to conduct business.
The small dog area is limited to dogs no taller than 13 inches at the shoulder, and with a weight no more than 25 pounds.
No dog treats, food (dog or human) or glass containers are allowed in the park.
The park is tobacco, drug and alcohol free.
No dog exercise or training structures are allowed in the park without prior approval by City Council.
