According to the Lansing State Journal, Dog parks increase our quality of life. The article examines the public benefits of dog parks, and the result is clear: dog parks are not just great for dogs, they also benefit the community at large (whether you own a dog or not). The opinion piece points out that dog parks:

- Are for people who own dogs. Dogs don’t go there alone.

- Give taxpayers/dog owners a public park designated for use with their pet.

- Promote responsible pet ownership through rules, including enforcement of required county licensing.

- Demand canine good behavior. Owners learn to train their dogs in order to use the park.

- Confine off-leash dog play to a safe area, protecting the rights of joggers, small children and people who may fear dogs using other open areas.

- Promote leash law enforcement by providing a safe public park for off-leash activity.

- Foster a sense of community among dog owners and pet lovers.

- Improve the health and well-being of dog owners and their pets through exercise.

- Improve community well- being. Well-exercised dogs are less likely to bark excessively, create a nuisance or destroy property.

- Deter crime and unwanted activity in isolated areas.

Woof!