Friends of Marshfield Dog Park Maintain Location
Over eleven years ago, Friends of Marshfield Dog Park formed to give friendly canines a secure environment in which they could romp and play. Dog parks were on the rise in the United States as more homes than ever had companion animals living in them. Marshfield was no different and citizens were eager to have a park for their dogs to run in.
Fundraising events were planned over several years and $22,000 was raised for the fencing. Location was also a popular topic as a large area of land was needed for the park. The Central Wisconsin State Fair board was contacted about subleasing some of their parking space as it was located in a prime area and wasn’t used throughout most of the year.
The board agreed to the request and a lease was signed. The park now had a home and fencing, the exact two items needed to get it started. Also decided on was a name, Paws ‘N Play Dog Park was officially titled and ready to open it’s gates to the public.
According to their website, www.dogparkmarshfield.com, the park has a clear mission: “To establish a fenced in, off-leash dog park where well-behaved dogs can exercise in a clean, safe environment without endangering or annoying people, property or wildlife.
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. To view this park as a community project, in partnership with the City of Marshfield, designed to satisfy the needs of dog-owners and non-dog owners alike.”
While all are welcome to use the park at no charge, it is best to get an understanding of the rules before entering. They are in place to protect animals and people. The most basic include: having control of your dog, cleaning up after your pet (disposable bags are available in several locations around the park), keeping food items outside of the fences, and no children under the age of eight. The full list and reasons why are posted on the Paws ‘N Play website.
Board President Phill Mauritz has been with the park from the very beginning. He said there is no better place to meet fellow dog lovers to socialize with, for both people and their pets.
“We encourage people to come and check it out. For first timers, it’s best to come early in the day when it’s not so busy. When introducing your dog to the park environment, a few friendly dogs are better to start with than a dozen. The most popular time slot for visitors is between 3:30 and 6:30 pm,” said Mauritz.
Board member Gretchen Ratzloff added that it’s a great place to make new friends. “We get to meet people and their dogs. We always welcome more visitors and often hear how it’s such a nice park.”
The City of Marshfield takes care of the mowing operations, but for those looking for a more hands on approach, volunteer opportunities are always available. Options include gathering up the garbage for pick up, helping with the hot chocolate socials in winter or planning their own fundraising events. In the past, garage sales were held, a holiday calendar was produced, and Halloween parties were hosted. Active club member, Kim Gilbert, says it’s an open door when it comes to fresh thoughts. “We love new ideas!” she said.
The number one fundraiser continues to be the beer stand that the group runs during the Central Wisconsin State Fair. With the money raised, they have been able to plant several trees, add and repair a meeting shack at the park, and last fall they were able to put up outdoor lighting. For those that work a late shift and like to take their dogs out at midnight, they now have a lighting option to keep track of their pets.
Board Member, Rob Regele, says the lighting gives everyone a chance to use the park when it suits their needs.
“This is what it’s for,” he said. “This is a dog park. We have various groups that come throughout the day. We become close to each other like family. We know people through their dogs. We hear about where they got their dogs and share stories.”
The Board of Directors meets quarterly and the meeting is open to the public. Issues and concerns can be brought up for discussion by anyone willing to share. The agenda is posted on the dog park shack. The next meeting is scheduled for July 11th at 6:00 pm at the dog park.
Gilbert encourages visitors to add pictures to the parks Facebook page as well as stay updated, https://www.facebook.com/PawsNPlayDogPark. “Time gets away from us here. Dogs play and people come and go while we visit. It’s great to see what people share on Facebook.”
Located at the corner of East 21st Street and South Peach Avenue, adventure and excitement await you and your dog!
