Historical September–October 2023 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
A new park for “Man’s Best Friend” is bounding toward reality. “We’re making good progress,” SDCC Dog Park Committee chair Kaitlin Daniels told the TIMES at “Yappy Hour,” a fundraising event held August 4. “Our site will be a great fit for the dog park, and we’re focused on financial contributions so we can add water service and an enclosure and get ready for operations.” The area north of the school annex on the east side of Des Peres is under SDCC control for the dog park. Dogs will be able to socialize with their best friends and run around off the leash, under parental supervision.
The committee has sponsored four events since March of this year, including the Dog Show, to raise awareness and funds.
These events feature beverages, brats and hot dogs (not the four-legged kind) prepared by committee member Nick Stefani.
When he’s not serving as the grill master, Stefani works as a civil engineer. Callie Kesel, architect and committee member, helped obtain a professional land survey. “The site has approximately 10,500 square feet that’s level and open space,” she said. “We’ll have separate enclosures for large and small dogs, secure gates, fresh water, and cleanup facilities.” Another volunteer, Andy Cross, is the committee’s Swiss Army knife, arranging for supplies, food, beverages and promotional materials for the Yappy Hours. “We’re pleased that our events are attracting so many supporters,” said Stefani. “Some bring their dogs and others don’t even own dogs, but they all recognize the benefits that this facility will offer our residents.” At this time, the closest facility is located in University City. Daniels, who teaches business at Washington University in St. Louis, added, “Neighbors see that having a dog park within easy walking distance will add value to Skinker-DeBaliviere.
It will be an important community asset and amenity.” A challenging detail is how the site should be enclosed. “Fencing will be the first thing people see as they approach the dog park,” said architect Kesel. “It is a vital design element that must secure the site, but in addition, the appearance must be appropriate for our historic neighborhood.” She is working with SDCC’s Historic District Committee to identify the best combination of materials and appearance for the enclosure. Funding is needed to open and operate the facility. Daniels said, “We’re seeking contributions and grants for start-up expenses, as well as an endowment to provide for insurance and maintenance over future years.
We want the membership fee to be competitive with other dog parks.” Daniels encourages all residents to voice their interest in the SDCC Dog Park.
A survey is available, and donations may be made, on the dog park’s website: https://sdccdogpark.wixsite.com/home.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, September–October 2023.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times2023_09.pdf, printed page(s) 7; PDF page(s) 7.
