Ruff News Update Spring 2021
R-DOGS 2021 / 2022 Goals:
Short Term: Water fountain installed in small dog area. Improved ground cover for large dog area.
Agility Feature: Research, obtain County approval, raise funds, purchase, and install agility features for both large and small dog areas. Need a volunteer Project Manager to get started.
Long Term:
Monitor the County’s Long Range 2022 funding plans.
Determine how best to be involved with county long range Master Plans for parks and recreation.
Continue the close working relationship with R-BID.
Continue work with Arlington County’s Parks and Recreation group. (ACRP)
Submit plans for Long Term Rosslyn Dog Park
Submit ideas to rename Gateway West Dog Park to County
Develop a major fund-raising program
Gateway Dog Park is officially open. Reaching this milestone would not have been possible without the joint effort by Arlington County Parks & Recreation, Rosslyn-BID, and R-DOGS members.
Local citizens and pets are enjoying the park and spreading the word. Attendance increases each weekend. Many non-dog owners have sent expressions of gratitude for the greater use of the park and pleasure watching the dogs playing. The park is a true community benefit. Going forward several events are being considered. Events will be held based on State and County COVID status and approvals. Monitor our web site to stay up to date on news items, events, rules and regulations, and issues that need your attention. Please let me know if you can volunteer time to our on-going efforts.
Regards,
Mary Ann Elliott, R-DOGS Director, Maellc100@gmail.com
On-Going Support
The saying “Nothing is free” is true regarding the dog park. R-DOGS members raised the funds to pay construction costs. Plus, funds to create the LLC, 501 3© and many other startup expenses. Arlington County will now oversee day-to-day maintenance and trash removal. Rosslyn BID gave a significant donation and is providing POOP bags, general help and litter removal. Your individual donation will ensure the park continues to flourish.
Donations Accepted Via
R-DOGS website https://www.r-dogs.net/ click on the link
Via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=FF98BSHXVDQEW
Check to R-DOGS. Attn: R-DOGS, Treasurer 1881 N. Nash St. #1601 Arlington, VA 22209
Arlington County
The County Improvement Plan is underway. Let the county know you support the dog park by providing feedback to the Capital Improvement Plan. In the section about Parks choose "Dog Parks" and in the comments section indicate the importance of Gateway Interim Dog Park in long term planning and funding.
These are the links being referred to under county news.
2. Dog Obedience classes now offered by Arlington County. Basic and Advanced seven-week classes start April 14. The cost is $94 for residents, $114 for others. Go to: Registration.ArlingtonVA.US. Under "Type" choose "Dog Obedience" and Search.
Arlington County Dog Rules
All dogs must be leashed unless they are in a dog park or on private property and under control.
Guardians are responsible for picking up dog waste and disposing properly.
Violations of the leash law, pooper-scooper law and running-at-large law can result in a summons to appear in court and fine up to $250.
Guardians/handlers are legally responsible for their dog and any injury caused by them.
All dogs must be licensed and vaccinated.
Guardians/handlers must always be in possession of their dog’s leash.
Additional Rules for County Dog Parks
Dogs less than three months old are not permitted in dog parks.
Female dogs in heat are not allowed in dog park at any time.
No food or alcohol is allowed within the boundaries of dog parks.
Dogs must be removed at first sign of aggression. An “aggressive dog” is defined as a dog that poses a threat to humans or other animals.
A handler/guardian may bring in no more than three dogs at a time.
Professional dog trainers may not use a dog park to conduct business, unless sponsored by Arlington County.
Guardians/handlers must always remain inside park area with their dog.
Guardians/handlers, prior to leaving a dog park, must fill holes dug by their dog.
Dog grooming is not allowed in any dog park, unless it is part of an Arlington County sponsored program.
Remember Scoop the Poop and Fill the Holes left by dogs who just love to dig!!!
Use the large black covered trash cans for poop bags.