SaddleBrooke Dog Park Holds Annual Membership Meeting

Anne Quinn-Diment

The SaddleBrooke Dog Park Association’s annual membership meeting was a momentous occasion, as the park’s 20th anniversary was celebrated while also honoring the invaluable contributions of devoted board members and volunteers.

During the Feb. 21 meeting, board members shared information about the park improvements made in 2023, acknowledged sponsors, discussed the pivotal role of the safety director, evaluated membership statistics, discussed the budget, and summarized publicity efforts. Additionally, incoming 2024 board members were voted on, and two new members joined the board.

During the proceedings, Board President Ron Luning expressed appreciation for the leadership and commitment demonstrated by the 2023 board members and volunteers. Luning specifically thanked former Vice President Suzanne Richards and former Secretary Pat Tarr, acknowledging their contributions to the dog park.

In 2023 the dog park achieved significant milestones, including the expansion of Riley’s Place, which caters to senior and less interactive dogs; the installation of a bridge for safer passage over the monsoon water drainage ditch; initiation of a sprinkler project to enhance the park’s sandy Wild Side; placement of rocks on the slope between the park and the softball field; resodding the Large Dog Side and Wild Side; fundraising for Friends of Pinal County Animal Shelter & Rescues; and hosting a delightful Halloween event for member dogs and their human companions.

In 2024 the SaddleBrooke Dog Park Board includes President Ron Luning, Vice President Nancy Hendricks, Membership Cathy Lee, Park Maintenance Jerry Hedberg, Publicity Anne Quinn-Diment, Safety Mel Ingold, Treasurer Don Richey, Secretary Laura Gregor, Webmaster Anne Quinn-Diment, and Database Merri Westphall.

The SaddleBrooke Dog Park was established in 2002 to provide member dogs with a secure off-leash space for exercise and socialization. The member-funded park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as a dedicated space for dogs seeking minimal interaction. All member dogs are required to have proof of current rabies vaccination. The Complete Canine, obedience and agility training sessions taught by Jeremy Brown, are held onsite throughout the year for any SaddleBrooke resident.

The board expressed gratitude to these sponsors who supported the park in 2023:

The Complete Canine

Camp Bow Wow

Doreen’s Boarding, Play Dates & Grooming

First Inspection Services

Lauren and Dorothy Real Estate

Long Realty, Anne Marie Glenn

Long Realty, Janet and Rob Laufman

Mesquite Veterinary Hospital

Metro Awning

Pusch Ridge Pet Clinic

Rawhide Feed and Supply Co.

SaddleBrooke One

Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center

The Dan Sieverding Team

The Mehalek Team, Tom and Leslie

Wags & Purrs Pet Sitting

X-Pert Automotive

Located at 39984 S. Sand Crest Drive in SaddleBrooke, at the intersection of S. Sand Crest Drive and S. Clubhouse Drive, the park continues to welcome new members. For additional information, please visit www.saddlebrookedogpark.com.

As the SaddleBrooke Dog Park marks its 20th anniversary, the community reminisces on two decades of fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for dogs and their owners. With excitement, we look ahead to another year of growth and success at the park.