New Mulberry Dog Park

[Becky&]

I finally got over to see the “new” Mulberry dog park. Frankly I’m surprised & disappointed. Yes it has a shaded covering and more places to sit, newer fences & landscaping. The dogs don’t need or care about that.
How about a small pond, elevated areas, sand to play in, tires to walk through or around, blocks to climb on- ones cubes and ones with holes cut out, weave poles, a small dog house or fire plug for a cute addition. Who designed this? It’s a grass museum. Why not put the effort from designing recreation centers or new area to build and sell in into our dog parks.
It is two fenced in grassy areas. Nothing to brag about in my opinion, although it is heralded in the paper about three times a week.
Dogs deserve SO much more, and frankly SO do we.

[tophcfa]

I finally got over to see the “new” Mulberry dog park. Frankly I’m surprised & disappointed. Yes it has a shaded covering and more places to sit, newer fences & landscaping. The dogs don’t need or care about that.
How about a small pond, elevated areas, sand to play in, tires to walk through or around, blocks to climb on- ones cubes and ones with holes cut out, weave poles, a small dog house or fire plug for a cute addition. Who designed this? It’s a grass museum. Why not put the effort from designing recreation centers or new area to build and sell in into our dog parks.
It is two fenced in grassy areas. Nothing to brag about in my opinion, although it is heralded in the paper about three times a week.
Dogs deserve SO much more, and frankly SO do we.

I agree with your post, however, you are making the assumption that the dog parks are designed for the dogs rather than the owners. Dog parks are an afterthought that are usually plopped down under high tension electrical wires where houses can’t be built.

[capecoralbill]

I read this 'park' cost $131,000. I think a few 'sail umbrellas" and a couple of hundred feet of chain link fence could have been had for a lot less. No restrooms for humans there either!
ColourTree 22' Triangle Shade Sail | Wayfair (https://www.wayfair.com/ColourTree--22-Triangle-Shade-Sail-TAPT22-L6989-K~CUOR4555.html?refid=GX444197841111-CUOR4555_54246493&device=c&ptid=1065923469086&network=g&targetid=aud-874349440045:pla-1065923469086&channel=GooglePLA&ireid=116944788&fdid=1817&PiID%5B%5D=54246493&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1a6EBhC0ARIsAOiTkrGWwTRpmZnqyqWNPFY5 SF8Tr7XCvaJZSEo13r9nvA8XdIvpUJM2IqEaAsU1EALw_wcB)

[Taltarzac725]

Try Doggie Doo Run Run. It is about 1 mile north on CR101 near its intersection with CR104. Belvedere becomes CR101 when it crosses CR466.

10 acres of area with a 5 acre back field, small dog area, large dog area, dog boarding area, agility area and a good sized parking lot which is dirt though.

Three shaded areas with two dog pools, lots of water, and it is mostly grass.

Nice people for the most part. There is occasionally a person you kind of expect to start saying "I am Negan". (Kind of a private joke for Mulberry Dog park people).

Doggie Do Run Run 12971 County Road 101 Oxford, FL Parks - MapQuest (https://www.mapquest.com/us/florida/doggie-do-run-run-371169743)

[graciegirl]

I finally got over to see the “new” Mulberry dog park. Frankly I’m surprised & disappointed. Yes it has a shaded covering and more places to sit, newer fences & landscaping. The dogs don’t need or care about that.
How about a small pond, elevated areas, sand to play in, tires to walk through or around, blocks to climb on- ones cubes and ones with holes cut out, weave poles, a small dog house or fire plug for a cute addition. Who designed this? It’s a grass museum. Why not put the effort from designing recreation centers or new area to build and sell in into our dog parks.
It is two fenced in grassy areas. Nothing to brag about in my opinion, although it is heralded in the paper about three times a week.
Dogs deserve SO much more, and frankly SO do we.

I do love dogs. I have never been to a dog park. I watch people on Judge Judy talk about them.

I think everyone who lives here has something or other they would like "bettered up". For me I would like to have a wall pencil sharpener in the art room.

However, I know that if each of us got our;

Community indoor pool. *used about eight weeks a year.
Charging stations for electric golf carts. * used by less than half of population.
Nicer dog parks * used by a large part of the population, but they cost MONEY.
etc. etc.

Then the bills to US will go up.up.up. We are watching this take place now on a national level.

[njbchbum]

I finally got over to see the “new” Mulberry dog park. Frankly I’m surprised & disappointed. Yes it has a shaded covering and more places to sit, newer fences & landscaping. The dogs don’t need or care about that.
How about a small pond, elevated areas, sand to play in, tires to walk through or around, blocks to climb on- ones cubes and ones with holes cut out, weave poles, a small dog house or fire plug for a cute addition. Who designed this? It’s a grass museum. Why not put the effort from designing recreation centers or new area to build and sell in into our dog parks.
It is two fenced in grassy areas. Nothing to brag about in my opinion, although it is heralded in the paper about three times a week.
Dogs deserve SO much more, and frankly SO do we.

I am guessing that folks who are not dog owners do not share your opinion that dogs "deserve SO much more"; and they likely would prefer to see what they think they personally "deserve" be improved in some area other than a dog park! I, for one, do not need my amenity fees spent on what you describe a dog park should contain! My amenity fees would be better spent on enlarging the fitness centers at rec centers; or perhaps for a trolley service between rec centers and squares - something for the residents who pay that fee! Most of us are appreciative of what has already been provided for us through our fees! Be happy Mulberry got "a shaded covering and more places to sit, newer fences & landscaping"!

[Aces4]

I am guessing that folks who are not dog owners do not share your opinion that dogs "deserve SO much more"; and they likely would prefer to see what they think they personally "deserve" be improved in some area other than a dog park! I, for one, do not need my amenity fees spent on what you describe a dog park should contain! My amenity fees would be better spent on enlarging the fitness centers at rec centers; or perhaps for a trolley service between rec centers and squares - something for the residents who pay that fee! Most of us are appreciative of what has already been provided for us through our fees! Be happy Mulberry got "a shaded covering and more places to sit, newer fences & landscaping"!


The solution here might be an additional amenity fee for dog owners of $50. per animal each month. Top notch parks could be maintained and dogs would be limited to the owners property or the dog parks when outdoors. It would be a win for everyone and I wouldn’t mind paying that fee for more dogparks and great facilities.

[njbchbum]

The solution here might be an additional amenity fee for dog owners of $50. per animal each month. Top notch parks could be maintained and dogs would be limited to the owners property or the dog parks when outdoors. It would be a win for everyone and I wouldn’t mind paying that fee for more dogparks and great facilities.

Sounds like a possibility...except for dog owners who do not think they/their dog needs such amenities...as well as the subsequent need to staff said amenity park so as
to insure that only paid members were using the expanded park....and the folks who will not pay the additional fee but will argue that they are entitled to use the expanded facility anyway!

[J1ceasar]

Land cost .

[J1ceasar]

Can be argued not everyone needs a pet park or pools or golf. But it's a nice amenity and can be thought that way . You can always ask for more or bring your own hydrant, playthings .

[Girlcopper]

The solution here might be an additional amenity fee for dog owners of $50. per animal each month. Top notch parks could be maintained and dogs would be limited to the owners property or the dog parks when outdoors. It would be a win for everyone and I wouldn’t mind paying that fee for more dogparks and great facilities.
Perfect idea. Let the dog owners suppliment the parks. Let the non dog owners just pay the regular fees and have their money spent on amenities they prefer. Why should we all pay for dog amenities whenn we dont own one???

[ScottGo]

I don't golf can my amenity fee waived. I think of the fee as to being used for the dog park at Dudley.:clap2:

[coconutmama]

Perfect idea. Let the dog owners suppliment the parks. Let the non dog owners just pay the regular fees and have their money spent on amenities they prefer. Why should we all pay for dog amenities whenn we dont own one???

Amenity fees are not, and should not, be on a “pay if you use” basis. Not practical. I don’t play tennis or pickle ball, but I am happy to have their maintenance paid by my amenity fee.

[Taltarzac725]

Better dog parks would sell the Villages a lot better than the reality of what we have now. Image can only go so far. Especially in the probability that people will start posting videos of the conditions at Villages' area dog parks.

[MEbner2805]

I finally got over to see the “new” Mulberry dog park. Frankly I’m surprised & disappointed. Yes it has a shaded covering and more places to sit, newer fences & landscaping. The dogs don’t need or care about that.
How about a small pond, elevated areas, sand to play in, tires to walk through or around, blocks to climb on- ones cubes and ones with holes cut out, weave poles, a small dog house or fire plug for a cute addition. Who designed this? It’s a grass museum. Why not put the effort from designing recreation centers or new area to build and sell in into our dog parks.
It is two fenced in grassy areas. Nothing to brag about in my opinion, although it is heralded in the paper about three times a week.
Dogs deserve SO much more, and frankly SO do we.

Those are safety issues you are wishing to create for dogs abd the villages has to consider all liability here with residents and their guests and pets. There are no dog parks out there anywhere with obstacles built into them or ponds that harbor bacteria and create mosquito borne diseases adults and dogs can die from. I been to lots dog parks in CA and there is a standard to those not to cause liability to the city or county as it should be. Your dog could break a leg and sue for that incident if obstacles were allowed, for example. People do crazy things in dog parks like bring food on them without realizing that can cause dogs to attack and bite too!, so has to be lots of rules to keep everyone smart and safe.

[SeanAndrews]

I like the dog park as is. If they make the improvements you suggest, my Labrador will jump in the pond, roll in the sand pit until she looks like a cinnamon donut, and eat the tires. She will then chew up the cubes, poop in the little dog house and completely ignore the fire plug. I think the dog park is fine.

[stebooo]

You forgot swing sets and seesaws and maybe a swimming pool and exercise course oh and don't forget maybe nice beds to lay in in the shade so they don't get there fur dirty. Come on it's a dog park

[stebooo]

This is really a good idea maybe an extra $25 add to that for total of $75 and then you can take your dog to every square and let it urinate on every plant

[airstreamingypsy]

A pond? That would be a nightmare, who wants to bring a wet muddy dog home? Dogs don't need amenities, they need a place to run and play, off leash, and read their pmail.

[pmken2]

It would of been nice to put some of the nice features that are at the dog parks south of us. One has agility stuff, etc. Too bad for that money they didn't put in stuff for the dogs to play in and climb on.

[Finchs]

Sorry, Becky, I disagree. My dog doesn't care about any of that--he wants to run around the grass chasing other dogs, or chasing balls. We took him to an agility course type of enclosure one time--he could care less. The dogs get to enjoy their time with each other more now--and get healthy outdoor exercise-- because of the shade structure, which allows their owners to stay longer in comfort. It used to be we had to leave by 11 am due to the heat in the summer. I am so grateful the CDD4 got to put in a permanent structure rather than the canvas one originally proposed.

[Roron123]

Amenity fees are for Rec centers etc not for golf as we have to pay cart fees 😉

[BigHoss18]

Give it time. You think you're upset now, wait until the dogs tear it up and the grass rots. We live in The Village of Fenney. Fairly new by The VIllages standards. Dudley Canine Park is about 4 years old and it is a terrible mess. The "maintenance department", or more accurately, "the non-maintenance department", has failed us by any standard. The concrete is filthy, the grass is all but gone and weeds proliferate. On the "big dog" side of the fence, it's worse, much worse.

[Topspinmo]

The solution here might be an additional amenity fee for dog owners of $50. per animal each month. Top notch parks could be maintained and dogs would be limited to the owners property or the dog parks when outdoors. It would be a win for everyone and I wouldn’t mind paying that fee for more dogparks and great facilities.


Where are the going to put additional dog parks in already built out area? I don’t want have to pay for dog park 20 miles alway that I would never use.

[Topspinmo]

Amenity fees are for Rec centers etc not for golf as we have to pay cart fees 😉

Where are they getting millions for up on executive course? It’s not just cart fees. We all pay for every thing in district. Especially for golf. Yes, I know NOT champion ship golf. The developers own them and when the become too old and runs down they will see the same faith as HH’s if they can’t pawn them off onto districts like Santiago and terra.

[BostonRich]

I go there every day with my dog. My understanding is that they wanted to "standardize" the dog parks but they are all different and that's not necessarily a bad thing.

The worst thing is that the first thing they did to build the "shade structure" was tear down the only tree on that side of the park. That tree provided needed shade in the summer but also let the sun warm you in the winter. It was the perfect year-round solution which this structure is not.

Simply put, the addition of several deciduous trees would have functioned much better, looked much nicer and cost a heck of a lot less than that structure. But nobody asked us dog owners.

[graciegirl]

Better dog parks would sell the Villages a lot better than the reality of what we have now. Image can only go so far. Especially in the probability that people will start posting videos of the conditions at Villages' area dog parks.

Nobody is having any trouble selling homes here Tal. In fact homes are selling well just about everywhere.

[rmd2]

Oh gee. I think they need a swimming pool there for the dog owners to exercise while their dogs play. And how about a Starbucks in the dog parks for the dog owners, and maybe some entertainment for the dog owners. It is the LEAST we can do for the entitled dog pooping in neighborhood yards owners.

[Mleeja]

Perfect idea. Let the dog owners suppliment the parks. Let the non dog owners just pay the regular fees and have their money spent on amenities they prefer. Why should we all pay for dog amenities whenn we dont own one???

What’s next? Should the softball players supplement the upkeep of the softball fields? How about the pickleball players paying an extra fee for the balls and nets?

We are all paying for an amenity that we do not use or prefer. Where do you start drawing the line? We have top notch facilities for a variety of activities. Just let it be.

[Taltarzac725]

Nobody is having any trouble selling homes here Tal. In fact homes are selling well just about everywhere.


The Villages Daily Sun often highlights how much the Villages' developers, the businesses in the Villages, etc. love animals. The sorry state of some of the Villages' dog parks show something quite different.

They should have planned from the beginning to parcel out enough land for dog parks that are of good size and have the proper amenities and use the landscape of the Villages.

[njbchbum]

The Villages Daily Sun often highlights how much the Villages' developers, the businesses in the Villages, etc. love animals. The sorry state of some of the Villages' dog parks show something quite different.

They should have planned from the beginning to parcel out enough land for dog parks that are of good size and have the proper amenities and use the landscape of the Villages.

Now why do ya think Harold didn't think about that! Or maybe he did and liability came to mind?

[kathy1516]

Well in answer to your question of why you should have to pay for dog parks I’ll explain why. I don’t golf but pay the fees for the maintenance for all the wasted space used for golfing! Why do you golfers need hundreds of golf courses when a few would do? I have to pay for YOUR hobby, why shouldn’t you pay for dog park maintenance?

[Mleeja]

Well in answer to your question of why you should have to pay for dog parks I’ll explain why. I don’t golf but pay the fees for the maintenance for all the wasted space used for golfing! Why do you golfers need hundreds of golf courses when a few would do? I have to pay for YOUR hobby, why shouldn’t you pay for dog park maintenance?

We all pay for amenities we do not use. I do not play pickleball or tennis, but my fees pay for the upkeep of the courts and supplies. I do not play softball, but my fees pay for the upkeep of the softball fields. I have never play the pitch and putt course, but my fees pay for the upkeep of this course. Are you catching my drift? We all pay for amenities we do not use. BTW, I do not use the dog parks, but I am glad there is an area where owners can take their pups and let them play.

[kathy1516]

We all pay for amenities we do not use. I do not play pickleball or tennis, but my fees pay for the upkeep of the courts and supplies. I do not play softball, but my fees pay for the upkeep of the softball fields. I have never play the pitch and putt course, but my fees pay for the upkeep of this course. Are you catching my drift? We all pay for amenities we do not use. BTW, I do not use the dog parks, but I am glad there is an area where owners can take their pups and let them play.
I totally agree with you. I don’t use any of those activities either nor the dog park but I’m tired of reading the comments from those who do use the golf courses and other activities that complain about not wanting to pay for dog parks. I’ve seen some of those parks and they are pitiful. Dirt holes, no grass, no maintenance. Absolutely no incentive to take dogs there. These are the same people who complain about dog pee and poop on their lawns. You can’t have it both ways. Spend the money to routinely maintain them like they do the golf courses! It’s only fair!

[Taltarzac725]

Dog Parks (https://www.districtgov.org/departments/Recreation/dogparks.aspx)

Take a look at Brinson-Perry Dog Park.
1231 Bonita Boulevard

When I was there shortly after it opened the small dog section was very small and most of it was on the side of a hill. Easy to fall when you are trying to find your dog's poop to pick it up.

It looks like they stuck that dog park where they could not even get a house into that area. One house might fit but they would, at least, level the area and not leave a steep grade of hill.

[ScottGo]

The city of Ocala has a beautiful dog park, it is closed 2 full days a week so grass will grow back sitting areas cleaned. The new Dudley park is closed for about 4 hours once a week. It's a shame some owners still don't understand the poop bags are provided for a reason. Sand box is for the ruts and holes, NOT to cover over the poop. If you can not clean up after your pet you really shouldn't have one, but some feel it's beneath them. I get fed up cleaning up someone elses poop while getting my dogs poop. Just so I/others don't step on/in it.

[tophcfa]

You forgot swing sets and seesaws and maybe a swimming pool and exercise course oh and don't forget maybe nice beds to lay in in the shade so they don't get there fur dirty. Come on it's a dog park

If dogs could buy houses the dog parks would have everything you mentioned and more.

[MJCtalk]

[QUIOTE=Becky&;1937438]I finally got over to see the “new” Mulberry dog park. Frankly I’m surprised & disappointed. Yes it has a shaded covering and more places to sit, newer fences & landscaping. The dogs don’t need or care about that.
How about a small pond, elevated areas, sand to play in, tires to walk through or around, blocks to climb on- ones cubes and ones with holes cut out, weave poles, a small dog house or fire plug for a cute addition. Who designed this? It’s a grass museum. Why not put the effort from designing recreation centers or new area to build and sell in into our dog parks.
It is two fenced in grassy areas. Nothing to brag about in my opinion, although it is heralded in the paper about three times a week.
Dogs deserve SO much more, and frankly SO do we.[/QUOTE]
If you want a dog park, buy a villa. Dog parks are where dogs get into fights, catch fleas and other problems, and allow lazy humans to not have to walk and pick up after their dogs. I have had several dogs and have never used a dog park because of all those reasons.

[GrumpyOldMan]

Well, I have two dogs and I agree the parks could be so much more. On the other hand, I am VERY happy to have what we have. Adding a lot of "things" for the dogs is not just a one-time cost, it is also maintenance costs and insurance costs, and on and on.

Most places I have lived prior to here didn't bother to provide dog parks at all. Having off-lease dog parks within walking distance is a big deal for me, I am happy for what we have.

[Taltarzac725]

People created makeshift dog parks in various areas of the Villages over the years. I can think of at least two offhand and went to one of them rather often with my former dog Sport as he would not go chase something.

And I had friends you used both.

One was up by a church off of 42 and the other near Rio Grande Mail Center and Pool.

[brassband]

If you have a small dog be careful you pup doesn't jump on the benches. The spacing between the slats is wide enough that your dogs leg might just slide on through and could get broken. Not a very wise or well thought out design. Rumor has it that a pup broke its leg over at the dog park on the historic side.

FWIW, be careful.

[DonH57]

I give the Villages props for at least putting up a shaded area there. Unfortunately our dog is no longer able to enjoy the dog parks because of his age and hips but he still enjoys a good golf cart ride.