Our Parks

It has been brought to the Parks & Recreation Department’s attention that the recent transition of the Anamax Large Dog Park’s resurfacing (with pea gravel) appears to be somewhat harsh on some dogs’ paws. This decision was a joint decision made by members of the Parks and Recreation Department and our Dog Park Advisory Committee, which is comprised of frequent users of both the Anamax and Quail Creek Dog Parks. Parks and Recreation has experienced significant challenges at the large dog parks at both Anamax and Quail Creek – Veterans Memorial Parks. Historically, these sites have seen significant use which has resulted in long periods of closures to maintain grass turf. Additionally, there have been problems with dogs digging and/or irrigation water creating holes and mud pits resulting in frequent complaints and more closures for remediation. These problems are typically not found on the small dog side of the parks because the usage by small dog breeds has much less impact on the condition of the surfacing.  The decision to use pea gravel was based on regional use and industry best practices recommendations regarding sanitation concerns and high use areas. All of the surfacing options recommended for use in dog parks have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. - Sand gets VERY hot in the summer sun (regularly over 180 f) and still allows dogs to dig (which creates safety hazards) but is sanitary and allows good drainage; there are also potential concerns about dust generated by active dog play. - Turf is gentle on the dog’s paws but presents issues with high use (very difficult to maintain adequate turf coverage), still allows dog to dig (which, again creates safety hazards), and has issues with sanitation and drainage. - Artificial turf is an option, but there are still concerns regarding the summer heat and the overall cost to install (very pricey). - Wood Mulch absorbs both urine and feces and requires regular replacement for sanitation reasons. Light-colored Pea gravel was ultimately selected as a lower-cost option that we felt offered the most benefits regarding sanitation, digging, and lower maintenance needs when compared to the alternatives.   Given the feedback we are receiving, we have scheduled another meeting of our Dog Park Advisory Committee to discuss resolving some of the issues presented. Until an ultimate decision is reached, we offer the following advice for consideration If your dog is having difficulty with the current surface area: - Slowly increase the time your dog is at the park. This will limit exposure and slowly let the paws acclimate to the surface. Perhaps 10 to 15 minutes the first day, and then add 3 to 5 minutes each day as the dog can tolerate. - Buy some booties for the dog (it may take a while for some dogs to get used to wearing them). - Purchase an over-the-counter application (i.e., Mushers Waxor TUF- Foot) available at most pet stores to help toughen up the dog’s pads. Please note: Check with your vet before applying anything to your dog’s paws. - If your dog is currently experiencing some tender/torn pads, PAD-HEAL is a “healing goop” which helps increase the healing process. Please note: Again, check with your vet before applying anything to your dog’s paws. 
We hope this response has helped to explain why the decision was made to transition to pea gravel in the Large Dog Parks. We are currently evaluating the large amount of feedback we have received. When we reach an ultimate decision regarding the surface transition, it will be posted on our website, as well as on our social media pages.