To City of Winkler, Manitoba Council Members This petition, supported by the undersigned constituents, is directed to the City Officials of the City of Winkler. Its goal is to prompt the creation and construction of an enclosed dog park within the city. We, the undersigned residents of Winkler, Manitoba, respectfully urge you to authorize the funding required to establish an “off-leash” dog park to be created within the city. In creating a dog park, we hope to accomplish multiple goals: 1. To establish a fenced in, off-leash dog park where well-behaved canine can exercise in a clean, safe environment without endangering or annoying people, property, or wildlife. 2. To develop a beautiful, well-maintained space, open to all dog lovers and friends who are willing to uphold the park's rules and restrictions. 3. To view this park as a community project, designed to satisfy the needs of dog-owners and non-dog owners alike. 4. Most dogs require exercise that leash restrictions do not permit. Dogs are social animals whose mental health is improved by interaction with other canines. Happy, healthy dogs are calmer and better behaved, reducing nuisance barking and other annoying behaviors exhibited by unexercised canines. 5. Park patrons want to ensure a clean park for all the dogs attending. Feces pick-up and disposal is an integral part of retaining a clean park. A visit to any dog park will verify this observation. Owners watch for and pick up their animal’s feces, and when a dog defecates, other patrons assume that the dog owner simply did not notice and gently remind the owner to pick up the feces and throw it away. Unfortunately, no off-leash dog parks currently exist in the vicinity of the aforementioned community. Just as other taxpayers enjoy convenient public swimming pools, jogging trails, golf courses, and playgrounds, dog owners need a place to exercise and enjoy their pets in an off-leash environment. In summary, such a park will benefit the greater community in many ways. We would appreciate your consideration in constructing an enclosed “off-leash” dog park