Barker Masthead
Vol. 1, Issue No. 2 September 2009
Hello Community Bark West Members,

Community Bark West has now officially been open for just over two months! Personally speaking, I don't know what we ever did without this wonderful dog park. Several hundred dogs and their owners attended our "Paws in the Park" celebration. It was so great to see everyone having such a great time. Kudos to all of our wonderful vendors, sponsors, guests, volunteers and YOU for making this day so special for our four-legged friends. Click here to view a photo gallery of all the day's events.

Since opening we've had nearly 7,000 visits to CBW and we now have almost 600 members. Thank you for your support. Please spread the word about our fabulous park to anyone you know who might have canine friends! We're always looking for new members to add to our growing CBW family.
 
The Dog Days of Summer are nearly over, but fall is a great time to go to the park & play with your pup!
 
Sincerely,
Kathleen McInnis
Glenview Park District
847-724-5670 
Safety First
Children under 12 and dogs don't mix
Some members have brought it to our attention that small children are being brought into Community Bark West. It is specifically and clearly stated in the rules that "children under 12 are not allowed in the dog park." It is also posted at the entrance. Some dogs do not like being around children or could accidentally hurt a child even though the dog might think it is "just playing." Nor is it fair to owners to be fearful that their dog(s) may harm a child. Please do not bring your children under 12 into a potentially dangerous or deadly situation. Infraction of this rule may result in temporary or permanent loss of park privileges.
Dog Park Etiquette
It's not about YOU! It's about your DOG!
Manners aren't just for the dinner table or for meeting royalty. Used correctly, Community Bark West can be a valuable part of a dog's socialization. But remember, your dog's manners are a reflection of you. Here are some tips to make your next visit an enjoyable experience for everyone.
  • Wear your tag(s). Don't hesitate to remind owners not showing a tag that the park is for registered dogs.
  • Unleash your dog inside the dog park. A leashed dog can be a target in an off leash area. An unleashed dog can be a problem outside the dog park. Make sure you keep your dog on leash going to and from the dog park.
  • Watch what your dog is doing. Once you and your dog are in the off-leash area, you need to supervise your dog's play. This is not the time to conduct a business meeting on your cell phone or read a novel. You are here to spend time with your dog.
  • Hackles up and/or teeth bearing are signs of arousal and possible aggression warnings. A dog doing either of these is not enjoying the park today. If you can't get your dog calmed down, it's time to leave.
  • Please make sure to clean up after your dog. Waste bags and receptacles are provided and not to use them is inconsiderate to fellow dog park members. If you do spot dog waste, please pick it up. Paying it forward is good for the entire dog park community.
  • Cleaning up after yourself is also a must. No food of any kind is allowed within the fenced area. Place all garbage in the trash receptacles. If you see something left on the ground ask yourself, "Would I want my dog to put this in his mouth?"
Mcgruff
Kathleen, Tana & special guest McGruff at the grand opening of CBW.
Quick Links
Paws Choice Raffle Winner
During the Grand Opening of Community Bark West, Paws Choice raffled off a $100 credit towards food and treats. The winner is Suzanne Polerecky of Glenview. Congratulations Suzanne & your lucky pooch!
 
Paws Choice
Good Things to Know
Community Bark West is open year round from dawn to dusk, daily, except ...
The dog park will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:30-11 am for maintenance through late fall. Eventually, we are hoping to only close on Tuesdays and use Wednesdays as our back up "rain date."
Our Members Speak
My name is Ann Patterson and my dog's name is Bruiser. He is the Frenchie/Pug that loves to run and play with all the bigger dogs. I just wanted to say that the park is not only beautiful, but fabulous, and every time we go we have a wonderful time. I have never seen so many dedicated and loving dog owners and so many well behaved and affectionate dogs. I am more than proud to be a member.
 --Ann is a certified dog trainer and has been involved with dogs for over 10 years.
Sorry,
No
(Guest) Dogs Allowed
We know it's tempting to bring another canine friend to play with your dog at Community Bark West. But have you considered the dangers of letting non-member dogs into the park?
  • Non-registered/non-member dogs may not have all the licenses, vaccinations and immunizations that are required, putting all dog park users at risk.
  • When incidents happen, the Park District needs to be able to track down the owners/dogs for safety and accountability.
  • Finally, if you are caught letting non-members/non-registered dogs into Community Bark West you will lose your dog park membership.
"Membership has its privileges," to borrow a phrase. These privileges help to ensure the safety and well-being of you and your dog when you come out to play. The Park District staff and the Glenview Police check the dog park daily to make sure everyone has tags, etc... but, we appreciate everyone's help in making sure not to let non-members in the gate. If the person truly is a member, their dog will have an orange tag on its collar.
Community Bark West Grand Opening
Saturday, June 27, 2009
 Collage