[Barefoot]

Originally Posted by Bonnevie

Despite using the number of dog parks as a selling point, the parks they have are really kind of pathetic. The park in Wildwood is superior in many ways and from what I understand, they just put a fence around an area already being used. It has large trees for shade, grassy areas, is huge and the benches aren't covered with metal--you can actually sit in them on a sunny day. I was hoping when they announced Atlas that it would be a true dog park in keeping with the nice amenities of the Villages. Instead, they made a flat area with no shade whatsoever. As for the park between 466 and 466a--aka the side of the hill...a group there recently asked for some simple changes that would help some of the owners who had mobility problems get in easier and they were told the current entrance meets ADA requirements. They basically said if the people complained too much, they could close it altogether. The Villages is no pet friendly as far as the parks they provide. They have done it grudgingly and it shows.

I understand it wasn't developed as a dog community, but it's proven that pets have become more important than ever in people's lives, especially older ones. They improve health and keep people social. What would it have taken to put a few trees in one area of Atlas with some non-metal benches under them? I've started going to Wildwood, it's nicer than any of the Villages parks.

The Villages really was developed as a pet-friendly community with two pets being allowed per household, with NO SIZE RESTRICTIONS. Many retirement communities allow one pet under 25 lbs. We purchased in The Villages in 2007 because they allow big dogs.

What a shame that the Developer dropped the ball on dog parks! I agree with Bonnie's statement that dog parks have been provided grudgingly. The small dog park in back of the Bonita Fire Hall is pathetic.

Thank goodness for Doggie Doo Run Run, a private dog park on 10 acres. It's not golf cart accessible and it's not free. But we take our dogs there daily, as do many Villagers. There is shade for people sitting, and a small pool where a dog can soak.