County seeks public input on dog parks

Play time at the Mason District Dog Park.

If you have a dog, are you happy with the off-leash dog parks operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority?

Let the Park Authority know by filling out a survey. The results will guide future planning. The survey will be available through Dec. 15.

There are 11 dog parks in Fairfax County; the only one in the Annandale/Mason District area is at Mason District Park.

The survey asks how satisfied people are with their local dog park; whether people have complaints about trash, excess dog waste, or other issues; whether they agree with the two-dog limit per handler; how far they are willing to walk or drive to a dog park; and where new dog parks are needed.

The survey is part of an in-depth study to assess current and future needs and priorities for dog parks. Based on community input, spatial analysis, and a review of national trends in dog park planning, the Park Authority will adopt strategies for long-term planning, development, and management of dog parks.

The study will evaluate county-wide needs and accessibility, design and site placement guidelines, maintenance and operations, rules and etiquette, and sponsorship and volunteer groups.