Peabody Dog Festival Raises Money for Dog Park

Submitted by Friends of Peabody Dog Park:

The city's first dog festival will be held on Saturday, June 28, from 9 a.m. to noon at Corbeil Park.

The Peabody Dog Festival, hosted by the Friends of Peabody Dog Park, will help raise money to build the city's first off-leash dog park. The festival will feature family-friendly music and a variety of exhibitors, many of whom sell doggie-related products and services.

"The support for our group has been great, and this Saturday's Dog Festival is another means of spreading the word," said Peabody resident Tammy Ross, who serves on the Friends of Peabody Dog Park's leadership team.

So far, the group has raised more than $2,000, Ross said.

While Corbeil Park was initially targeted as a location for the dog park, flooding concerns have since led Mayor Edward Bettencourt to recommend an area of Emerson Park across from James Street, behind the basketball court and skate park.

Currently, the location features a heavily wooded winding trail, so clearing of the spot will be required before park construction can begin. The city is also looking to a dog park grant that would help offset the cost of design and construction.

"We are excited about the change in location," Ross said. "It is more centrally located, the parking situation is better, and we'll be able to take advantage of the topography to create a natural setting where dogs can explore and play. The trees will provide some nice shade, too."

Responsible owners and their well-behaved dogs are encouraged to attend the Peabody Dog Festival. Dogs must be leashed at all times, and owners are asked to properly dispose of their trash, including pet waste, in the bins provided.

The event will be held rain or shine.