 |
| Write a Proposal and Draw up a Plan |
|
Once you've selected a site, it's time to write an official proposal that outlines the benefits of a dog run (not just to dogs and their humans, but also to the community at large) and states how and by whom it will be maintained. Your proposal should also include a sample list of dog-run rules (to show that you take management of the run seriously). To read the city's official rules for dog play areas, download a copy of the "Final Dog Policy 2002" from this page of the San Francisco Recreation & Park Department's website .
In your proposal, explain why your chosen site is ideal; but be sure to also include the pros and cons of any other options. if you plan to raise money to help create your run, include rough budget expectations and a brief review of funding plans. (See the section, Step 5: Find the Funds.)
Create a simple drawing of your proposed run that shows how it will fit in the surrounding area and includes its basic components (this is the time to recruit any dog-owning architects or artists in your neighborhood). For ideas, visit other dog runs and talk to users about what works and what they'd change if they could. For a sample of a well-crafted proposal, put together by Oakland residents to get funding and approval for a dog run at Mosswood Park, go to the 38th Street Neighborhood Group website, then click on the "Final Proposal" link in the left-hand column.
Your plan should include the following basic elements: fence line, water location, a separate small-dog area (these are more and more common), benches, and shade trees. The location of trash receptacles and bag dispensers should be noted, too. The run should have two entrances—on opposite sides, if possible—each constructed with inner and outer gates enclosing a vestibule, to prevent dogs from running out when a single gate is open.
You'll also want to recommend a surface. Hardy grass is the healthiest choice for dogs' joints, and the most pleasant for people, but it does pose maintenance challenges (irrigation, mowing, etc). Wood chips and pea gravel are common alternatives, favored by city park departments for their low-maintenance charms. However, some people complain that wood chips smell and harbor bacteria; others say pea gravel bothers dogs' paws. Recently, crushed granite has come into fashion: it's more expensive than wood chips, but it's said to be a durable, well-draining surface that doesn't smell and is easy on paws.
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
 |
|
|
Stay on top of
dog news and events.
It's free!
|
|
|
|
|
| |
 |
|
| |
we promise privacy |
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
