Paws ‘n Play ribbon-cutting includes dog treats, people food, vendor giveaways, and a K9 demonstration
by Melanie Jongsma
LANSING, Ill. (October 13, 2018) – “This has been a dream for a couple of years,” said Park Board Commissioner John Kelly. “It was number one on the wish list for the community. So we heard the community, and we acted on it.”
The occasion was the ribbon-cutting marking the official Grand Opening of Lansing’s new dog park, Paws ‘n Play. Approximately 100 people and 30 dogs were gathered along Chicago Avenue for the ceremony—some were already members and had already visited the park after it opened on September 17. Others were there to try it for free before purchasing a one-year membership. And still others were there simply as dog lovers who wanted to express their support of this new venture by Lan-Oak Park District.
The bright sunshine and fall temperatures made it a beautiful day for the ceremony, and guests streamed into the spacious park once the ribbon was cut:
The Lansing Police Department also joined the festivities, and Officer Haan and his K9 partner Rico provided a demonstration of how dogs assist Lansing police:
Paws ‘n Play Dog Park is open from dawn until dusk every day, year-round. A one-year membership costs $50 for Lansing residents, and the year begins whenever the completed membership packet is turned in with payment. Members receive a fob that opens the entrance gate of the park.
Membership packets are available online at lanoakparkdistrict.org and in person at the Eisenhower Center, 2550 178th Street. In order to complete the application, owners will need to refer to their dogs’ records and indicate the dates of various vaccinations. The forms can be completed at home, but payment is required in person, and activating the dog park entrance fob must be done in person.
Paws ‘n Play Dog Park is located in Bock Park, along Chicago Avenue, just south of the expressway.
Grover loved it. He didn’t like the canine demo, he thought he was getting hurt. We had a great time. It has been worth the wait.