A permanent dog off-leash area is being developed at McLean Neighbourhood Park, including a separate area for small or shy dogs.

This engagement is focused specifically on where the small/shy dog area should be located and how the available space should be configured.

Community input will be considered before the final layout is confirmed.

Option 1: Beside the main all-dogs off-leash area

Locate the small/shy dog area beside the main all-dogs off-leash area, with a smaller footprint than previously proposed.

This would maintain the planned size of the main all-dogs off-leash area, while retaining existing trees between the small/shy dog area and the rest of the park. The trees would provide a buffer and allow shaded open space to remain available for informal park use.

Option 2: Within the main all-dogs off-leash area

Locate the small/shy dog area within the west portion of the main all-dogs off-leash area.

This would retain more adjacent open park space for other uses but would reduce the size of both the main all-dogs area and the small/shy-dog area.

Following notification of the planned design, the City received feedback about the proposed location of the small/shy dog area, including concerns about its impact on open park space used for other activities.

Before finalizing the location, the City is seeking broader community feedback on the two viable options.

The area is intended primarily for small dogs measuring up to 41 cm (16 inches) at the shoulder and a maximum of 11 kg (25 pounds).

It may also provide a suitable space for dogs of any size that are:

• shy and uncomfortable around other dogs
• elderly or physically fragile
• recovering from an injury

When the area is not being used by small dogs, it may also be used to help socialize and train dogs of any size.

A separate area provides small or shy dogs with an alternative off-leash space away from larger or more energetic dogs.

It allows dogs that may be less comfortable in the main all-dogs area to exercise and socialize in a separate enclosed space.

Feedback about the two options (including how each may affect dog off-leash use, open park space and other recreational activities) will be considered before the location and configuration of the small/shy dog area are finalized.