Maize Memorial Dog Park representatives took part in the 12th Annual Strutt Your Mutt Festival on Sept. 12 to create awareness for the new dog park in Ontario. They also raised some donations. Community support generated over $300 for the dog park.
According to Demrie Alonzo, the group’s director, Richland County is the only county in Ohio that does not have a community dog park. So in November 2013, she and some other devotees banded together to solicit surrounding towns for the approval of a fenced-in dog park. Nearly a year later, they have a plot of land surrounded by trees in Ontario’s Marshall Park.
“Dog parks bring people to an area, and the dog industry is millions of dollars, so it’s really a no-brainer for a community,” said Alonzo. “Richland County is known for the bike trail, and people do walk their dogs on the bike trail, but it’s not ideal.”
The City of Ontario’s council unanimously approved the dog park during their September 18 meeting. According to Alonzo, there are typically three public readings before the council approves an item.
“But it passed on the first reading,” said Alonzo.
The next step for the dog park is to have the four-and-a-half acre plot of land surveyed by Ontario’s city engineer. Following the survey, the contract can be signed; and then the group will host a groundbreaking ceremony.
The name, Maize Memorial Dog Park, is a tribute to Sam Alonzo’s grandparents’ dog, Maize (pronouned MAY-ZEE). Alonzo said Maize was Sam’s (Alonzo’s son) best friend. Alonzo said she’s always owned dogs, but hasn’t had one for the last two years.
Alonzo hopes the dog park group can be a non-profit organization. Then the park can “truly be owned by the community” she said.
“There’s just something incredible about having dogs run free. Some owners don’t have a place for their dogs to exercise. This dog park will be a social hub,” said Alonzo.
A meeting is scheduled for volunteers on Saturday, Oct. 11. The Facebook event’s information specifies:
“Anyone interested in helping out with the dog park is invited. We need people who can help in building the fencing to spreading the word with posters and flyers to offering up ideas for businesses and people to approach for sponsorships. This is YOUR dog park so let’s get involved! Please send this invite to all your dog friends.”
The meeting will take place at Granters Grinders in Lexington at 10 a.m. For more information about the dog park, visit their Facebook page or website.
“Dog parks bring people to an area, and the dog industry is millions of dollars, so it’s really a no-brainer for a community,” said Demrie Alonzo. “Richland County is known for the bike trail, and people do walk their dogs on the bike trail, but it’s not ideal.”
