Why not call it a “dog park”?
This article explains the rationale for advocating for an off-leash recreation area instead of a “dog park”.
Let’s start by suggesting a different term for dog park. We know it’s an easy term to use, but it often evokes irate comments like: “What do you mean you want to spend my taxes on a bunch of dogs?”; “What about safe playground equipment for my kids?”; “Drinking fountains for dogs, you gotta be kidding!” Play it safe, try using terms like “off-leash” or “multi-use area,” stressing the human component at all times. The acronym-clever COLA people (Citizens for Off-Leash Areas) in Seattle simply call theirs OLAs (a convention we’ll adopt here). In Berkeley, “multi-use area” refers to the multiple legitimate uses, including our leashless dogs, that are allowable in sections of the park. In Indianapolis they refer to their recently inaugurated area as a Canine Companion Zone.
Dog-friendly businesses in the Maynard area
Here are some of the business establishments in Maynard and surrounding towns that are notably dog friendly (well-behaved, leashed dogs are usually welcome):
- Aubuchon Hardware, 51 Main St - (978) 897-2500
- Ace Hardware, 117 Great Rd # 117, Stow - (978) 461-0122
- Pet Source, 117 Great Rd, Stow - (978) 897-9599
- Ray & Sons Cyclery, Main St, Maynard - (978) 897-8121
- Erikson’s Ice Cream, 12 Great Rd, Maynard (free doggie ice cream available on request!)
Do you know of other dog-friendly businesses? Please add them in the comments!
