Release Date: September 24, 2010
Office of District 1 Councilwoman Mary Alice P. Cisneros: 207-7279
Councilwoman Mary Alice Cisneros announces the opening of first off-leash Dog Park in downtown San Antonio
District 1 City Councilwoman Mary Alice P. Cisneros is proud to welcome the newest off-leash dog park to the City's park inventory with the opening of Madison Square Dog Park located in downtown San Antonio at the corner of Lexington Avenue and Dallas Street near the downtown Baptist Hospital.
"With a growing number of residents moving into the downtown area, I am pleased to announce the opening of the first off-leash dog park located in the central business district," stated Councilwoman Mary Alice Cisneros. "The addition of this site will offer downtown dog owners direct access to an amenity that they would have previously had to drive many miles for."
The dog park construction project was funded by excess bond revenues and is nearing completion. The dog park will be officially open to the public on October 10, 2010, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony beginning at 1:30 p.m. and lasting until 5:00 p.m. Animal Care Services will be on-site offering micro chipping services, dog vaccinations, pet licensing and same day pet adoptions.
"Dog parks are truly amazing, they provide an opportunity to bond with your dog, make new friends and get exercise all at the same time,” stated Gary Hendel, Director of Animal Care Services. "A dog that plays at a dog park regularly becomes a socialized and happy dog and will bless your life for years."
Parks and Recreation Department Director Xavier Urrutia will serve as the event's master of ceremonies. "The Parks Department is excited to bring our downtown residents another way to get out and enjoy the outdoors along with their four-legged friends," Urrutia said. "This dog park is one more way for San Antonio to keep active and keep fit."
The event will also feature free food and drinks for dogs and their owners, live entertainment, and special appearances by Animal Care Services mascots Chips and Salsa. Madison Square Church, located directly across from the park, will also be offering pet blessings.
Free parking is available for the event in the Madison Square Church parking lot, located at Lexington Ave and Quincy Street, as well as around the perimeter of the park.