Grandview-Woodland is a dog park dead zone. It has been recognized by the City of Vancouver as one of 6 under-served neighbourhoods based on the number of licensed dogs and population density (see report here). The closest off-leash dog park to our neighbourhood is at Trout Lake / John Hendry Park which is a 20-30 minute walk depending on where you live. That’s not accessible for everyone and not convenient for everyday use, particularly for those of us without a car. 

In the absence of an official off-leash dog park, dog owners in our neighbourhood are using the Grandview Elementary sports field, Britannia running track, Alice Townley Park, Victoria Park and McSpadden Park among others. In spite of recognizing that these are shared spaces and doing our best to ensure we use them respectfully, this frequently creates conflict with other users of these areas (ie: kids, parents, runners, people playing sports, owners of dogs that need to remain on-leash, etc). This highlights the needs for a dedicated area where dogs can run and play. 

It has been well-established that off-leash play provides good exercise and important mental/emotional stimulation and socialization for dogs, particularly younger ones. According to the BC SPCA, dogs need 30 to 45 minutes of exercise a day on average. Many need much more than that. 

Right now, the city is converting vacant lots beside W.C. Shelly Park into expanded park space as part of the 2023-2026 Capital Plan. As part of the public engagement process, residents are being asked for input. We want the city to include a fenced off-leash dog area in the final park design. Please sign the petition to show your support! 

In addition to signing this petition, please visit this link to share your interest on the public record in having a fenced off-leash dog area at W.C. Shelly Park (1500 E 8th Ave):

• I request an enclosed off-leash dog area in W.C. Shelly Park to provide Grandview-Woodland dog owners with a dog park within 15 minutes of where they live per the City of Vancouver's own recommendation. 

The number of people and dogs in Vancouver is growing. With population growth and people living in smaller spaces, it's now more important than ever to balance different uses of parks and public spaces (City of Vancouver - People, Parks and Dogs Strategy Report - October 2017).