Hot Dog for the Dog Park!

Dozens of neighbors braved freezing temperatures to show their support for creating a place where our dogs could run, play, and socialize off the leash. Supplied with hot brats and hotdogs prepared by volunteer grill master Ian Eaves, Dog Moms and Dog Dads gathered at Four Corners on March 18 and viewed designs for the neighborhood dog park.

The park will use the remnant property on the east side of Des Peres, north of the school annex. The Skinker-DeBaliviere Community Council (SDCC) has formally established the Dog Park Committee to plan and operate the facility. “Some people have claimed it would be a cold day in hell before we get this,” said committee chair Kaitlin Daniels, noting the wind chill at the event, “but today’s turnout demonstrates strong support for the project. With the closest dog park located in U. City, our kickoff shows that this facility is needed in the community, regardless of whether you own a dog.”

Volunteer Kim Gladstone distributed architectural drawings depicting separate areas for small and large dogs, each in the shape of a dog bone, enclosed by wrought iron fencing. Fresh drinking water and waste cleanup facilities will be available. Committee member Callie Kesel handled donations at the kickoff event. “We intend to have the necessary money for initial construction costs and ensure long-term financial stability.” With her day job as a professional architect, Callie is helping with the facility’s design. “The contributions received at the kickoff prove that the dog park has terrific support,” Callie said. “They range from one youngster --- probably just six or seven years old – who gave a pocketful of quarters, to a resident who pledged a five-figure donation.”

Committee member attorney Marvin J. Nodiff (ret.) said, “The dog park represents an immediate need and a long-term investment, an asset for our community. The support we’re getting is contagious, and the committee brings a dogged determination to make it happen.”

Thank you to everyone who showed up in the freezing cold to make our kick off event a success! Stay tuned for more events (and more cooperative weather).