Wilmington Dog Park Marks 'Mostly Successful' Start, Except...

Wilmington, MA - Wilmington's long-awaited dog park is entering its second week, and the animal control department says all has gone well - for the most part.

The new dog park was officially "unleashed" June 15, at Town Park, 823 Main Street.

And so far, so good - except for one thing, according to Animal Control Officer Chris Sullivan.

"I am saddened to hear that not everyone is removing their pets' waste," Sullivan wrote in a Facebook post for Wilmington Animal Control. "From what I have read and been told, some owners are leaving the bags in the park, which, although appreciated that the bags are being used, ABSOLUTELY have to be carried out and disposed of properly."

However, Sullivan said, in general things have gone well. His department has received no complaints about aggressive dogs and, as of June 24, "not one bite has been reported." He's also received many compliments and much gratitude for the new space.

"So thank you for that, it is much appreciated, and please keep it up," he wrote.

The Dog Park consists of two fenced-in areas; a 13,500 square foot area for all dogs, and a 6,600 square foot area for small dogs only. Obstacles in each area include hoops, tubes, and stumps.

The park is open to all licensed dogs. Dogs must wear a collar with valid tags displayed at all times. It is a carry-in, carry-out facility, meaning owners must take all refuse, including pet waste, from the park.

The trash issue is largely due to pet owners who bag up their dogs' waste, but then leave the bags in the park, Sullivan said in the post. According to him, experience in other parks like Silver Lake shows that making more trash barrels available actually leads to more littering. It is expected that dog owners bag the waste at the park, bring it home and dispose of it in their own trash can, he said.

"My goal is to make the park a safe, fun and enjoyable atmosphere for both dogs and their owners," Sullivan wrote. "With the weather getting much warmer, no one wants to smell 6-10 bags of waste in the park."

He asked that dog owners work together, and report any rule violators they spot by calling 978-658-7988 x 5400 or emailing csullivan@wpd.org.

"My goal is to educate owners as to what is allowed and not allowed, but if owners and handlers continue to not comply, a fine, starting at $50, WILL be issued. After all, the park was built for your benefit," Sullivan wrote.

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