HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/4/2023 Item 3, Irving
From:Kathy Kimball <
To:Advisory Bodies
Cc:Tim Irving
Subject:PRC meeting 1/4/2023 re: Laguna Dog Park
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I am submitting comments from Timothy Irving who was unable to attend the meeting tonight.
Thank you,
Kathy Kimball
San Luis Obispo
From: Timothy Irving <
Sent: Wednesday, January 4, 2023 4:34 PM
To: Kathy Kimball <
Subject: Long winded dog park response
My thoughts include dog park specifics, the role of parks in general, and the responsibility of government.
As our community grows and our desire for housing density vs spreading out into our beautiful wild areas, the need for
parks grows. Housing with yards to relax in are a thing of the past so therefore parks play an important role in the
lifestyle of the average citizen. It is important that government models parks with diversity so a large majority of its
citizens can enjoy the beauty of this area and weather.
Dog ownership is also growing as more people look for canine companionship. This is evident by the increase in service
dogs and the use of dogs in health care. Our community is blessed with the large area the city has designated at Laguna
Lake for a dog park.
I have used the Laguna Lake dog park for more that 20 years and have met many people who share the joy of dog
ownership. What is the purpose of a dog park? It is an open space for dog owners to exercise their furry friend and
provide the dog with much need stimulus to ensure a happy and healthy life. However just as important a dog park
provides a valuable venue for people to meet and socialize with other people. Many of the people I meet at the dog park
the social environment is the only avenue they have to reach out to others. So a dog park is just as important for a
citizen as it is for the dog.
What is government’s responsibility? The number 1 priority is the safety and well being of its citizens-not the dog.
Laguna Lake is a multiple function park. Since not all people share the same comfort with dogs as dog owners do a
perimeter fence is a must. Dogs should not be allowed to wander into the frisbee area, picnic grounds, or playgrounds.
People who use these facilities must feel safe in their recreation.
Not all dog owners have the same comfort level with other dogs. People who own small dogs are uncomfortable and
unsafe when their small or aged dog is mixed in with large and young energetic dogs. A fenced section for small and
aged dogs is a must so that citizen feels safe.
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Now for enhancements to increase the dog park experience. Dogs need room to run. Ball and frisbee fetch being the
most popular way to exercise the dog. But all dogs are not created equal. Some dogs get along well with other dogs
while playing fetch. While others are more possessive of their toy. The space must be enough so a person can take their
overly possessive dog away from the others. Both citizens feel safe.
Fetch is not the only recreation I see dog owners do with their dogs. Througout the city you can find dog owners out
jogging or walking their buddy. Both experiencing the benefit of exercise. One of the most successful do parks I have
visited was in Eugene, OR (running capital of the world). That park had a hard packed path inside the perimeter fence for
people to walk and jog with their dog off the city streets. Both are safe. As a side note I have observed many people
walking the perimeter track with their friends and their dogs which is a great social activity.
Shade. Unfortunately disease took away the shade trees at the dog park. Shade structures need to be provided so
people can sit and visit with friend while their dogs safely play.
Parking. Dogs are loose in the parking lot. Not safe or comfortable for drivers trying to navigate the parking lot. Double
gate entry is a must.
Parking.. There isvery little of it creating a hazard for all.
Timothy Irving
San Luis Obispo
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