It’s happy news for our furry friends, the District says two more off-leash dog areas should be available within the calendar year.
A spokesperson for the District of Squamish wrote to The Squamish Chief in an email that one is expected to open as early as the spring.
“Two new off-leash dog areas will open in 2024. The off-leash area located at Brennan Park is scheduled to open this spring, and the off-leash area located along the Powerline Service Road in Brackendale is scheduled to open later this year,” wrote Rachel Boguski.
With the opening of these two, there will be three in total for Squamish, including Merrill Park in the Garibaldi Highlands, which opened in 2022.
A fourth area is set for Valleycliffe, but it does not have an anticipated opening date due to additional costs.
“The remaining location, John Hunter Park in Valleycliffe, requires an investment in fencing, and a timeline is still to be determined,” said Boguski.
Boguski wrote these locations were chosen based on community feedback in 2021. Additionally, dog owners using the areas will be expected to carry a leash and ensure it is visible, clean up and dispose of dog waste, and ensure the dog is wearing a valid licence.
“The areas are routinely patrolled by bylaw enforcement along with additional enforcement in the ‘no go areas’ of the community,” she said.
Some additional information about the project's history is available on the District’s website.