Yongsan opens dog playground

By Cpl. Lee Min-hwi (USAG-Yongsan)March 17, 2009

Community opens dog playground
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

<strong>YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea</strong> - A new playground for dogs gives owners a place on Yongsan specifically designated for walking and playing with their dogs without worry.

This new dog playground is a large fenced-in area located beside the Pet Care Center near the Hospital Gate, Gate 17. It is open seven days a week, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

"The garrison has been receiving suggestions from the community for opening a park for pets," said Eric Yim, USAG-Yongsan Community Activities Center acting director.

Garrison Commander Col. Dave Hall said this park is part of the effort to improve the quality of life for the entire community.

"Now there's a place where community members can take their dogs to run free," Hall said. "I encourage everyone to make good use of this park."

In the dog playground, there are several rules or "petiquettes." All dog owners may have up to two dogs per visit and always are responsible and liable for their dogs and their actions. "This means that they should clean up after their dogs and dispose of the waste," Yim said.

Dogs that are aggressive or in heat are not allowed within the area. The rules also prohibit bringing children's toys or playing human sports such as football or baseball in the playground.

Owners must register their dogs with USAG-Yongsan Veterinary Treatment Facility and have current shot records on file in order to use this playground. Although dogs should be on-leash everywhere else, they can be off-leash in the park.

"This is a great place to take my dog, there's a wide-open field that is fenced-in so I can feel safe letting her run free," said Raluca Rorrer, dog owner. "I think it is important for the community to have a place dog owners can take their pets, it's nice."

The community is planning an official grand opening soon, and although the dog playground has not officially opened, anyone can use this area.

Related Links:

USAG-Yongsan Flickr Site

USAG-Yongsan Official Site