19 June 2020

Play time extended at Canberra dog parks

| My Gungahlin
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Minister for Territory and Municipal Services (TAMS), Shane Rattenbury, announced the installation of lighting in Canberra’s dog parks.

“Canberra dog owners have been asking for lighting at their local dog parks that would allow them to exercise their dogs after dark, so I’m thrilled we’re able to deliver this service,” Mr Rattenbury said.

“At this time of year, I understand that many pooches may be missing their regular evening play time, with their owners not getting home from work until well after dark.

“Lighting has already been installed at the Belconnen, Forde and Yarralumla dog parks and will be lighting up the Casey and Tuggeranong dog parks in the next couple of weeks.

“Much like street lights, these lights are controlled by sensors which turn on just before dark and off just after dawn.

“Each dog park will have a light over its main entrance and two flood lights within the park, with the exception of Belconnen which has a light at each of its two entrances in addition to two flood lights.

“TAMS will monitor the lights over coming months to ensure their effectiveness. I encourage the community to provide feedback on their experiences using the parks at night so we can continue to provide a service that meets the needs of dog park users.”

Mr Rattenbury said dog parks provide great health and wellbeing benefits to both dogs and their owners.

“The ACT Government recognises the importance of providing suitable and safe areas for owners to exercise and socialise their dogs.

“Dogs that are well socialised and exercised are likely to be happier and healthier.

“Providing an opportunity to exercise dogs after dark also helps people get outdoors and moving, which can be a difficult task in Canberra winters when it gets dark so early,” Mr Rattenbury said.

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