City leaders want to build more off-leash dog parks, partly as a response to the trend of "pandemic puppies" that has led to a sharp spike in urban dog ownership.

As the pandemic forced people to isolate from their friends and co-workers, many Americans took solace in adopting a furry friend. As Marcela García writes for the Boston Globe, "the dog economy is booming." With so many "pandemic puppies" in new homes, "soon-to-be mature dogs will be matriculating in public spaces and will insist that their voices are heard." Recently, city officials in Boston confirmed that they want to build a dog park in every neighborhood, but some opponents push back on what they see as a frivolous use of public funds.
Proponents of public off-leash dog parks argue that the parks can reduce "unwanted and sometimes dangerous" interactions and create vibrant community hubs for both people and pets. And although dog-on-dog violence and accidents do occur, writes García, "there is a level of responsibility and etiquette that comes with ownership. That includes licensing your animal, 100 percent poop pickup — no excuses — and following leash laws except when one is sure no harm or hassle will ensue." More public dog parks can help urban dogs and their owners stay healthy, social, and sane long after the pandemic.
FULL STORY: Boston's dogs just wanna run free

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Urban Design, Transport, and Health
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Detroit Bike Share Celebrates Five Years
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Urban Planning Partners
Sandy City
Ada County Highway District
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Redwood City
City of Rohnert Park
City of Hot Springs
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Hand Drawing Master Plans
This course aims to provide an introduction into Urban Design Sketching focused on how to hand draw master plans using a mix of colored markers.