New Orleans, La. - The city of New Orleans issued a warning Monday about laws regarding dogs in public. The warning comes after reports of dogs running free in parks made for people.
Allen Blow likes to bring his dog to Markey Park in the Marigny. There are two separate fenced areas there. One is a playground and the other is a field where dogs often run free.
"This is great because you have both options," said Blow. "I have kids too. The kids can play in the kids park and my dog can play here."
But according to the city and a sign clearly posted at the park, Markey Park is not a dog park.
The city issued a warning Monday for people who live in NOPD's 5th District. It reads, "It should be noted that Markey Park is NOT a sanctioned dog park."
With that warning, came a reminder about leash laws and the soiling of public property.
The only sanctioned dog park in the city is NOLA City Bark, located inside City Park. It's the only place where dogs are officially allowed to roam free without a leash.
Gretchen Artus brings her dog Mabeline there for exercise. It's the same story for Susan Caillouet and her dog Izzy.
"This dog park here is a God send," said Caillouet. "I love in an apartment and try to bring her at least five times a week."
But not everyone lives just minutes from the only official dog park in the city. Allen Blow in the Marigny is hoping Markey Park will some day be an official dog park. And he may be in luck.
The City of New Orleans Recreation Development Commission has approved 18 new locations, including Markey Park, to be potentially designated and outfitted as official dog parks or dog runs.
Those requests will no go into the capital projects budget process and must be approved by the City Planning Commission and the New Orleans City Council.
Until then, the only public place your dog can run free, without risking a fine, is NOLA City Bark.
Keep in mind, there is an application process and an annual fee to use that dog park. For more information go to www.nolacitybark.org.
