Q:How much will this cost?

Basic fencing/landscaping/clearing costs are in progress and will be exacted once the final site is chosen by the BOD. The committee will recommend an annual registration fee which will help to defray costs, as well as dog-related fund raisers by dog owners.

Q: Will there be  rules?

Yes, a detailed set of rules will be required to be signed upon registration.  A simple sign of 4-5 rules will be posted at the site.

Q: Will there be a registration process?

Yes. A membership based park was chosen to address safety to ensure that all dogs admitted to the dog park have current vaccinations and be parasite-free before being admitted. In addition, the committee will recommend  membership fees to the Board which could provide necessary revenue for on-going operating expenses and allow for future upgrades to the Dog Park. 

Q: Is there a fee to be a member? 

The committee will be recommending an annual membership for residents which might be in the range of $30 per year + $5 per additional dog.  Maximum of two dogs per handler. There is also a daily pass for visitors to our area or those wanting to try the park before becoming a member. You could purchase a day pass for $5 or $10 for a three day pass. Maximum of two dogs per handler. 

Q: Will this increase our POA insurance premiums?

Our broker from Brown & Brown has stated that there is no additional premium for a Dog Park.  It is treated exactly like the Children’s Playground. 

Q: Will it be noisy?

Generally, dogs parks are not noisy.  When dogs are playing and running they are not barking at outside distractions.

Q: How do you keep dogs from getting loose?

Dog parks are designed with a double-gated transition area so that upon entering the holding area, one gate is closed before the gate entering into the dog park is opened.

Q: What happens when there’s an aggressive dog?

First, known Aggressive dogs are prohibited from using or registering for the Dog Park. If one is encountered, then remove your dog from the situation. Second (if it is safe) politely tell the dog’s owner that you feel their dog is aggressive and ask them to take action to control their dog or leave the park. If you do not feel safe or a polite request has no effect, call the Volusia Animal Control office at _____. It is up to users of the Dog Park to police each other in a friendly manner to keep the dog park safe for all.  

Q: Who will maintain the Dog Park?

Maintenance/spraying/trimming would be coordinated with the POA Public Works. Dog Poop collection is the responsibility of the dog owner. The Dog Park is self policing. If a rule is broken, many times it is because people are unaware of the rules. It is up to all of us to educate and bring the rules and regulations to their attention. If you see someone not abiding by the rules (i.e. forgets to pick up poop or is eating or smoking in the park), politely introduce yourself, remind them of the rules, and thank them when they comply.

Q: Why was Lindy Loop removed from consideration as a possible site?

The recent jet accident at the end of Runway 23 (west end) highlights the potential safety issues of having people and their dogs in harm’s way.  Additionally, on April 24th, the  Airport Committee Safety Briefing instructed pilots, in the event of an engine failure departing from Runway 23, to steer their plane towards the grassy area adjacent to the proposed dog park site.  It is also considered to be a negative feature in the efforts to restore our nighttime GPS approach as well as maintaining our daytime GPS approach.

Q: Will I still be able to walk my dog in other areas?

The Dog Park is designed for off leash exercise and play time for dogs within the community. The existence of a Dog Park will not in any way infringe upon anyone’s ability to walk their dog wherever they wish.  It is hoped that people will  consider the safety of their pet and other pedestrians and limit their “off leash” time to  the designated park but the committee has no mission to enforce this.

Q: Will there be separate areas for large and small dogs?

Yes, the dog park will model the well-established Dog Park design which includes large and small dog areas and a double gated transition area.