Every dog has its day at the Batavia Bark Park

On Saturday, Sept. 23, the Batavia Park District will dedicate newly added agility equipment from 10 a.m. to noon at the Bark Park, courtesy of a generous donation made by the Batavia Animal Clinic. The new park equipment includes leash posts, an adjustable bar jump, a "sit pretty wait table," and even a Canine Castle, all purchased through a local Batavia business, Barco Products.

"Pets are part of the family," said Dr. Adam Schanding, owner of Batavia Animal Clinic. "People don't want to leave them at home if they don't have to. Encouraging a dog-friendly environment will help drive community involvement. I know a ton of people that take their dogs to the Bark Park, including myself. It will be nice to have something new there for them to play on and learn with. I wanted to give back in a way that would help enhance the Batavia community and parks."

The Batavia Park District opened the Bark Park at West Main Community Park back in spring 2008 and boasts over 50,000 visitors annually, and that's not including their four-legged friends.

The first 50 individuals to arrive at the dedication event with their pet will receive a free gift from the park district. An agility equipment instructor from DePaw University, Canine Campus will be on-site leading some fun games to get your furry friends heart racing and be giving away some fun prizes. Bulldogs Unleashed also will be at the event if you would like to learn more about the painted bulldogs in town and the community fundraiser.

The Agility Equipment Dedication event is sponsored by the Batavia Animal Clinic.

For more information about the event or the Batavia Bark Park, call (630) 879-5235 or visit bataviaparks.org.