Petition calling for an off leash dog area in Dunshaughlin
A GROUP of Dunshaughlin dog lovers have launched a petition calling for an off leash dog area in the village's pubic park.
More than 300 people have already signed the petition to provide a fenced-in run free area in the park.
Maureen Pullen, one on those behind the petition said that "as the proud owner of a playful new puppy, I have come to appreciate the irresistible joy that dogs derive from running freely and socialising with their furry friends. This experience is fundamental to their well-being, particularly in their formative stages of life, as it helps shape their sociability traits and physical health."
She said that many local dog owners share the same sentiment. "We are a seeking dedicated, fenced dog run in Dunshaughlin Park. This safe enclosure will allow dogs to frolic and mingle without restrictions. It will also ensure harmony within the park’s ecosystem, as other visitors will feel secure knowing dogs are safely contained in their designated area.
"Dunshaughlin Park already has adequate waste bins for responsible dog poo disposal. The proposed site is centrally located for easy, convenient access by residents of our village.
"This would allow the dogs to run free and have a wee bit of space. Otherwise we have to have them on a lead all the time," she said. "Ninety-nine per cent of dog owners are responsible and clean up after their dogs. They don't want their dogs running around in dirt.
"Having a fenced off area where dogs are playing together would also be good for children who are afraid of dogs and they could see them from a safe distance."
Maureen said she had visited off lead dog parks in Fingal and hoped Meath County Council could provide something similar.
Cllr Fionnan Blake is supporting their call and points out that this type of facility is a concept that has spread across Europe and the UK and recently to parks in Ireland.
"I met up with an animal welfare group and learned it’s good for a dog’s social traits and health to be given the opportunity to run free in an area for a while, every day, instead of being in a house or a small back garden.
"There are two problems in our park, people are letting their dogs off their leads when they enter the park. Dunshaughlin has grown significantly in recent years and the park can be very busy, especially at weekends. Some people are afraid of dogs running free especially around children.
"The other problem is dog fouling around the park, where dog owners fail to clean up after their pets. Recently, I sponsored a dog bag dispenser unit, at St Seachnall’s National School, and I’ve agreed to supply bags for this to urge people to clean up after their dogs. I am willing to sponsor another one beside the area if it’s given the go-ahead by the council.
"I visited St Catherine's Park in Fingal twice to look at their dog off leash area, which by all accounts is a huge success with dog owners coming from far and wide to use the facility."
At last week's meeting of Ratoath Municipal Council, Cllr Blake called on Meath County Council to provide the off-leash facility.
"I think it’s a small ask, there is an area for it and it won’t cost that much to set it up. I think it would be a massive addition to our park and community in general and make the park here safer and more enjoyable place to visit."
He was told the Council's Community and Transportation Departments, when resources allow, would carry out further research to determine the suitability and feasibility of a dog park.