Evanston Dog Beach Reopening Set, Pets Will Need Vaccines, Licenses To Get Passes

EVANSTON, IL — The Evanston Dog Beach is set to reopen for the first time in more than six years.

Dog beach passes are expected to go on sale next month ahead of a scheduled March 1 opening, city officials announced.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming our four-legged companions back to the lakefront this spring, and are encouraging all dog owners to act now to ensure their pets’ vaccinations and pet licenses are up to date," said Tim Carter, recreation manager for the parks department.

The dog beach closed in 2016 when it was submerged under rising lake levels. The next year, it was relocated south of the Church Street boat ramp, but closed indefinitely in 2018. But after the near-record levels in the summer of 2020, Lake Michigan has receded and the beach is available again, although some repairs have been needed.

To be eligible for a dog beach pass, animal owners must verify their pets have current vaccinations or antibodies for rabies, distemper (CFV), hepatitis (canine adenovirus-2), para-influenza (CPIV), parvovirus (CPV), leptospirosis and bordetella (kennel cough).

They also need to have had a negative fecal test for internal parasites within the prior 12 months. These requirements are a requirement of the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control, and owners may need to visit a vet to sign a vaccine verification form.

Pet owners must also provide proof they have a pet license from their city of residence eor proof that it does not require one. Evanston licenses pets for $15 each, or $10 if neutered or spayed, and applications may be purchased online or at the Civic Center.

More than $100,000 was budgeted to the dog beach from the city's 2021 capital improvement fund, and a $85,000 was allocated to a dog beach from a 2020 Northwestern University contribution.

Those interested in updates about the status of the dog beach may sign up for the city's dog beach notifications email list.