The petition
Why a Dog Park in Lansdowne?
According to the Humane Society, using statistics gathered from the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 2005- 2006 National Pet Owners Survery, there are approximately 73 million owned dogs in the United States, an estimated 40% of US households own at least one dog. According to the 2000 census Lansdowne had a population of over 11,000 persons, roughly 5,000 housing units that would translate into an estimated 2,000 to 3,300 dogs in Lansdowne borough alone. All of these pets need a place to play. Creation of a dog park would produce a social and recreational mecca for both pet and owner. Numerous research suggests that a well socialized and exercised dog makes for a much better pet. According to Susie Aga a certified Canine and Behavior Specialist, socialization builds a dogs temperament and exercise releases stress and energy, enabling the dog to be even-tempered, calm and well behaved companion. A designated off leash park would enable residents of Lansdowne, most of whom do not own parcels of land large enough for adequate dog play, to come together and socialize, to trade dog stories and offer guidance and direction to those new to the park and neighborhood, as well as new to dog ownership.
The dog park designation would provide a multifaceted return to the community. It would be a place for responsible pet owners to come together and promote responsible pet ownership. A dog parks encourages a sense of community and pride that occurs when people take interest in their surroundings. Dog owners make up a large percentage of the population in Lansdowne who will now be able to participate more fully in Lansdownes amenities. The park traffic would increase; thereby decreasing undesirable, delinquent activity in the park. There would also be a better separation of those people who would like to be around dogs and those who will not. It is also more likely that owners will abide by leash laws in other park areas once they have a designated area for off leash play.
Why Marlyn Park?
According to the Redevelopment Comprehensive plans The vision of the borough is to create a community that cherishes its heritage, fosters socially and economically healthy environments, encourages safe human-scale development, and efficiently uses land, infrastructure, and public facilities and services." Creation of a dog park in Lansdowne is in line with the Redevelopment plan and vision. A dog park wold introduce a more diverse usage of open space as well as encourage outdoor recreational activities year round. A dog park appeals to the vast members of the community who are dog owners and view pets as a member of their family. Most importantly having a dog park provides an additional reason that encourages people to locate, remain, or return to the borough for a healthy safe and enriching environment in which to raise their families. Marlyn Park is one of the most centrally located parks within Lansdowne. The park is on the larger scale among those in Lansdowne, providing a more comprehensive exercise / play area. The natural barriers in the park would allow for the safest environments for both owner and pet. The location of the park allows for easy pedestrian access and would increase utilization of the park. Opponents of a dog park will likely bring up noise as well as defecation as arguments against a dog park. I see these as small challenges in the face of huge rewards. The residents of Lansdowne are responsible and I see no reason to think they would be any less responsible at the park. The residents deserve a place to go and bring their canine companions. I encourage you to help me realize one of the boroughs visions in the comprehensive plan by enabling me, a citizen of Lansdowne, to work together with the board to attain common goals and fully capitalize on the community's resources by creating a off leash dog park at Marlyn Park.
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