Dog Fancy, a widely-read national magazine for dog owners, has recognized the City of Knoxville's Dogwood Park in its annual "America's Best Dog Parks" contest.

Dogwood Park, located in the city's Victor Ashe Park, received the "Best Setting" Designation from the publication in its June issue that hit newsstands this week. Dogwood Park is one of ten dog parks, located in eight different states, which are featured in the article. 
 
"We're always pleased to be recognized for something like this, that brings so much joy to so many dog owners in our community," said Mayor Bill Haslam. "We want Knoxville to be a great place to live and work and play, and parks like this one certainly help the city achieve the play element of that goal. We're looking forward to building the new downtown dog park and we hope that it garners similar notice." 

Dogwood Park opened in Victor Ashe Park in April 2006 after a local group, the Knox Dog Owners Group (or Knox DOG), approached the Parks and Recreation department about building the city's first off-leash dog park.

Parks and Recreation Director Joe Walsh worked with Knox DOG to locate a suitable site. Knox DOG members subsequently cleared the site while the city covered the costs of fencing, equipment, a dog water fountain, dog waste stations and various materials. 

"We are always eager to work with groups that take initiative like Knox DOG did," said Walsh. "Our facilities always turn out best when we receive feedback from the people who will be using them the most. The City is happy to share this honor with Knox DOG." 
 
The City's Facilities Division of the Public Service Department built dog ramps, puppy jumps, and installed a tunnel from recycled playground equipment - all of which were noted by Dog Fancy. 

"It's always exciting when a city gets its first dog park. We at Dog Fancy see it as the beginning of something wonderful - dogs being seen in a public place having fun with their owners and other dogs," said Susan Chaney editor of Dog Fancy. "This type of project tends to spread, especially in larger communities that have additional city-owned property that isn't being used. Good luck, Knoxville!" 
 
The City of Knoxville is working with Petsafe Village to build a downtown dog park on the corner of Summit and Central. The park is slated to be opened in 2009.

For more information on the City's dog parks, please visit www.cityofknoxville.org/recreation .