Separate dog park proposed

Local dog owner Carolyn van Zyl says a dog's behaviour isn't always based on their breed, but how they are socialised.

Mrs van Zyl is proposing the Waitaki District Council creates a fully fenced exercise area at Fenwick Park.

"I personally don't agree that your dogs need to be locked up. I think they need to be socialised."

Mrs van Zyl said an exercise park is extremely important for dogs.

"Let them off their leads, let them run and get their paws muddy," she said.

"That's what dogs do."

Mrs van Zyl owns two dogs, a wheaten terrier and a cross breed, and believes dog safety is all about education.

"We need to educate children how to approach dogs they don't know," she said.

"We can place signs and teach people how to look after their dogs indirectly."

Mrs van Zyl said she had been speaking to a number of people who are in full support.

"I have not spoken to anybody who has said it's a dumb idea," she said.

However, the exercise park will need rules in place.

"People wouldn't be able to take dogs that have been identified as dangerous," she said.

Once council had given the green light to the park, Mrs van Zyl will begin organising fundraising events to raise money for fencing.

One lady who has spoken to Mrs van Zyl has said she will donate a picnic table.

Betty Peace, who is an obedience trainer, said the dog park would have fantastic benefits to dogs and their owners.

"They learn to get on with everybody. I'm quite positive it would be well utilised," she said.

Mrs van Zyl asked anyone who would like to see the dog park established, to write to the Waitaki District Council, discussing their views and indicating a suitable area for the dog park.