In May of 2013 Grand Marais-based Go Dog North Shore (GDNS) formed as a 501(c)(3) to help promote active dog ownership in our area. GDNS’s first accomplishment was partnering with the Cook County Community Center and members of the horse community. Through this partnership and with money GDNS raised, the Gunflint Horse Arena was adapted to also serve as a dog park. The creation of the Gunflint Horse Arena and Dog Park has provided local community members and visitors the opportunity to exercise their dogs off-leash, safe from traffic, predators and traps.
GDNS and the Cook County Community Center maintain a waste bag dispenser and garbage receptacle so that people can responsibly clean up after their dogs when using this public space. In recent months, some dog owners using the park have not been doing their part to keep the park clean. If dog owners continue to leave piles of waste at the park there is a serious risk that dogs will no longer have the privilege to use this shared space.
GDNS would like to remind all dog owners using the park to pick up any waste you find, even if it’s not from your dog. Bags are supplied on site but it’s always a good idea to have one of your own in case the dispenser is empty. Please do your part to help keep this valuable resource available to those who enjoy and depend on it.
GDNS is presently working toward the development of new, wooded space designed specifically for dogs. Responsible use of the current temporary dog park will help GDNS move forward with this initiative. We are also looking for volunteers to help maintain the current park on a weekly basis.
If you’re interested in doing your part to help keep the dog park open to dogs, please contact Cathy at quinn@boreal.org or 370-9494. For more information about GDNS visit www.godognorthshore.org.
Cathy Quinn
Grand Marais
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