Anne Quinn-Diment
It’s time to wag our tails and bark with joy, because the SaddleBrooke Dog Park (SBDP) is celebrating its 20th anniversary with 271 members! From humble beginnings as a retention basin to becoming a beloved community landmark, this milestone marks two decades of pawsitive memories, wagging tails, and endless playdates for our furry friends.
Twenty years ago, the park was only a mere concept, nestled within the confines of a retention basin in SaddleBrooke TWO. Bit by bit, with soil, rock, grass, fencing, and sheer determination, the park started to take shape. The grand opening in 2004 marked a significant milestone, but the story began the year before.
In 2003 founding board members embarked on a mission to transform the land into a haven for our four-legged companions. These board members were June and Stan Boicourt, Bob Bulakowski, Kristin Goddard, Eleanor Lowrey, Phyllis Rachbach, and Sandee Voges. Twenty-one years later, Bob and Sandra Bulakowski are lifetime members and continue to enjoy the park with dog Gracie.
After the founders sought permission from Robson Group to utilize the space, they set out to recruit members who shared their passion for dogs and community. From there, the park blossomed, nurturing traditions that have become beloved dog park staples. One tradition that continues today is the annual Halloween Costume Party where dogs strut their stuff in creative and adorable costumes, much to the delight of proud fur parents and onlookers.
Yet #dogparklife is not just about the festivities. It’s about the hard work of volunteers who generously donate their time. Over the years, the park has seen remarkable transformations, including the introduction of new sod, a concrete entry ramp, a designated area for dogs who prefer less interaction, brick patios and chairs for shady relaxation, a bridge to span the wash, and irrigation to keep the landscape lush and vibrant. We are immensely grateful for our volunteers’ commitment to maintaining and enhancing the park, which ensures that it remains a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable space for dogs and their owners alike. Thank you to everyone who has played a part in making the SaddleBrooke Dog Park the bark-tacular place it is today.
As we reflect on the past two decades in 2024, SBDP members are filled with gratitude for the vision and fortitude of the founders and volunteers of 2004. Their inspiration has created a legacy that continues to enrich the lives of our furry companions and strengthen the bonds of our community. So here’s to 20 years of wagging tails, endless fetch sessions, and paw-some memories at our dog park. As we look to the future, let’s continue to cherish and nurture this special place that brings joy and happiness to those who walk through its gates. Here’s to many more years of tail-wagging fun!
For more information about the SaddleBrooke Dog Park, please visit www.saddlebrookedogpark.com or check out the SBDP Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SaddleBrookeDogPark.