• Site the dog park appropriately, preferably near a trail system with a water source easily accessible. Also pay attention to runoff and NIMBY (Not in My Backyard) issues.
• Segregate big dogs from small dogs as equitably as possible.
• Work with dog owners representing big and small dogs. Surprisingly, or not so surprisingly, a division exists here — mainly dealing with segregating big and small dogs and doing so equitably — that can cause headaches if not dealt with from the get-go.
• Make sure to provide amenities and site furniture, and even play/exercise apparatus, as dog parks are among the most heavily used park areas.
• Try to fund it with as much private money, and as little public money, as possible.
• Make sure rules about who’s responsible for what in development and maintenance/cleanup are set early in the process.
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