Dog Park Named for Facility's Inspiration

In a fitting tribute, Attleboro's new dog park was officially named Saturday in honor of the golden retriever who inspired the creation of the facility. Dog park committee co-Chair Roberta Collins became visually emotional as co-Chair Raymond Cord announced the park would be named after her dog Spencer. She did not know in advance about the honor.

"Without Spencer, Roberta would not have had any thoughts of building a dog park, and we wouldn't be here," said Cord to a large group of people, many accompanied by four-legged companions.

More than five years ago, Collins thought about the idea for a local dog park while driving home with Spencer from the park in Sharon. She had a bad episode of vertigo caused by Meniere's disease, and the dangerous moment made her think she and others should not have to leave the city to visit a dog park.

It was not an easy journey from idea to reality, but a team of dedicated individuals led by Collins, Cord and Carol Ferraro raised the needed money through various methods and received assistance from local businesses and others, including the city, which donated the land on Pond Street North across from the animal shelter.

The emotional ceremony came at the end what has been one of the most emotional weeks in Massachusetts.

"It's been a long week and a roller coaster of emotions with everything that's gone on," Cord said. "One thing that has stood tried and true through all this has been the sense of community ... I see it right here at the dog park, and I think one of the best things about the dog park and how it came to be is the sense of community that it brings to our great city."

Spencer Park is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and at various times on weekends. Go to www.attleborodogpark.com for more information about the park, including how to make donations for ongoing upkeep and maintenance.