Long-awaited Perth Dog Park brings tails and neighbours together
PERTH — It was a pawsome Saturday at Darou Farm as more than 100 dogs and 200 humans gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the long-awaited off-leash Perth Dog Park on Oct. 4.
Mayor Judy Brown joined councillors Isabelle McRae and Gary Waterfield for the official leash-cutting ceremony, along with Tracy Lettner and Tania Cadeau, co-chairs of the Friends of the Perth Dog Park.
The celebration featured live music by Matt Dickon, local vendors, a community cake, and plenty of wagging tails. The Town of Perth called it “a pawsome celebration of community spirit,” thanking the Friends group for its dedication and fundraising efforts that helped turn a long-time dream into reality.
Located at 2845 Rideau Ferry Road, the park covers about 1.3 acres within a larger 25-acre municipal property, which also includes trails for leashed walks. Inside the fenced area are two play zones: Gentle Paws-Shy, a quieter space for small or recovering dogs, and Happy Tails, for high-energy pups ready to zoom.
The idea for the Perth Dog Park first surfaced in 2009. After years of discussion and community petitions, council approved the project in 2023 following a successful grassroots fundraising campaign. The Friends raised $30,000, unlocking the town’s commitment to fund construction and contribute about $9,000 annually toward maintenance.
TG Landscaping handled the construction work, and volunteers have continued adding features such as benches, solar lighting, and final touches at the park.
Lettner said the community’s generosity has been heartwarming. “All coats, booties and leashes we didn’t sell have been donated to northern dog rescues that are desperate for supplies,” she said, noting that Perth newcomer Karen Davidge helped coordinate the effort.
Leftover cake and water from the event were donated to The Table Community Food Centre, thanks to Lisa and Jim McFarland of McFarland’s Maintenance. The Perth Barkery handed out freshly made woofles, which are waffle-shaped dog cookies, with proceeds going back to support the park.
Coun. Isabel Anne McRae helped connect organizers with students seeking community-service hours. “They were exceptional,” Lettner said. “We hope they take ownership of the park in the years to come. It’s for them, their families, and their future dogs.”
Cadeau said seeing the park open after years of effort was emotional. “We’re so relieved and thankful to everyone who helped along this journey,” she said. “Now we’re looking ahead to Phase 2 and 3 to make it the best dog park possible.”
The Friends of the Perth Dog Park, now a registered charity, will continue fundraising for upgrades. Donations can be made at www.zeffy.com/donation-form/perth-dog-park-at-darou-farm.
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