City Supports, But Won't Pay For Dog Park
TRAVERSE CITY -- There are about 13 dog parks in Michigan, but they’re all down state in places like Ann Arbor, Royal Oak, and Muskegon.
That’s become a problem for some local pet owners.
City officials kicked Michael Pintarich and dozens of other residents out of Hickory Meadows for letting their dogs play off leash. The group decided they needed a dog park to relocate their play dates.
While Executive Director of Traverse City and Garfield Township Recreational Authority, Benjamin Marentette, says he believes the community needs a dog park but it can’t afford it.
Marentette says, “We don’t have the resources to go out and develop a plan and operate it. That is why we are hoping a private group funds a dog park.”
Pintarich is frustrated that the city won’t commit to something so many people want, so the group is starting a petition. At the same time they are also looking for property to host the dog park. The group is offering to manage any land given to them for a dog park.
Saturday, July 17th residents can sign the petition at the Grand Traverse Commons. The group will have a booth at the Dog at the Park all afternoon.
