A Dog Park in South Boston

We, the undersigned, residents of the State of Massachusetts, hereby petition the Department of Conservation and Recreation, as follows:
Due to the limited open space available to all dog owners, to allow construction of a leash-free dog park on the land, owned by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, and bounded by Day Boulevard, Columbia Road and Babe Ruth Boulevard, for the following reasons:

City of Boston, Massachusetts and National Parks regulations mandate dogs be kept on a leash in public areas for the protection of fellow residents, as well as the dogs themselves. As you are aware, several dog parks have been constructed over the years to provide safe places for dogs to gather and play legally "off-leash". Unfortunately, there is not one of these dog parks in the South Boston area, where many dog owners reside.
There is not a facility in our area to accommodate safe, "off-leash" activity
Such a facility would resolve the ongoing angst between dog owners, non-owners, police and park authorities regarding dog access to the city, state and Federal Parks
Dog parks are the answer to dogs running loose, without leashes, which is proscribed and continuously enforced in public areas and makes dog owners needlessly feel like criminals.
They promote public health and safety because the dogs who use the park will be required to be licensed and vaccinated. Additionally, the facility would ameliorate dog excrement in other areas as the dogs would be encouraged to relieve themselves in the park.
Many dogs need exercise over and above human limitations; leashes limit the dogs space, pace, and healthful activity requirements. An exercised dog makes a better next-door neighbor than an under-exercised dog. Dogs that get enough exercise by playing in a dog park are less likely to create a nuisance, bark excessively, destroy property, jump on passers-by, etc.
Socializing dogs is very beneficial to the community, since it makes them less skittish and mitigates aggressive behavior when meeting other dogs and people
The cardiovascular effect is great for the dog's longevity and weight control, and the overall effect makes most dogs calmer, healthier and better behaved
Such a facility would increase park utilization and increase interaction among families in the community
The proposed location for the dog park is an under utilized area near the beach with excellent access by all residents and visitors to the area.


Once approved, the undersigned dog owners who utilize the dog park will participate in constructing and maintaining the park as necessary. Additionally, such dog owners understand and will obey the following rules:


Rules & Regulations
* Owners are legally responsible for their dogs and any injuries caused by their dogs
* Owners must remain within the fenced area at all times
* Dogs must be leashed prior to entering and upon leaving the area. Gates to the area must remain closed
* Owners must clean up after their dogs.
* Dogs with a known history of, or who exhibit, dangerous behavior are prohibited
* Dogs must be healthy, fully immunized, de-wormed, and licensed
* An adult must accompany children under 12; young children must be closely supervised
* Puppies under four months old, and female dogs in heat are prohibited
* Dogs must be watched at all times
* Cooperation between dog owners is essential

More than just "room to roam," the creation of a dog park....

Allows dogs to exercise and socialize safely. Puppies and adult dogs need room to run, and enclosed play areas permit them to do so while preventing them from endangering themselves and others (for example, by running into the path of an oncoming vehicle). In addition, dogs who are accustomed to playing with animals and people other than their owners are more likely to be well-socialized and react well toward strangers.

Promotes responsible dog ownership. Dog parks prevent off-leash animals from infringing on the rights of other community residents and park users such as joggers, small children, and those who may be fearful of dogs. Parks also make it easier for a city to enforce its leash laws, as resident dog owners with park access have no reason to allow their canine companions off-leash when outside of the park.

Provides an outlet for dog owners to socialize. Dog parks are a great place for owners to meet other people with common interests. The love people share for their dogs reaches beyond economic and social barriers and helps to foster a sense of community. Park users also benefit from the opportunity to ask questions of other owners and find solutions to problems they might be having with their pet.

Make for a better community by promoting public health and safety. Well-exercised dogs are better neighbors who are less likely to create a nuisance, bark excessively and destroy property. Their presence in the park, along with their owners, also helps to deter crime.



Any questions, concerns, comments or suggestions, please call 617-816-1800 or email [email protected]