Dog Walking: Dearborn Allows Man's Best Friend In Parks

DEARBORN, MI — Dearborn dog owners now have another option for walking their four-legged friends. The City Council on March 21 amended Dearborn’s ordinance to allow dogs on leashes in both Crowley and Geer parks.

Dogs must be on leashes no longer than six feet, held by the pet owner or other responsible person. The person walking the dog is still responsible for picking up and properly disposing of any animal waste. Dogs and other domesticated animals are still prohibited in all other City parks, except for verified service animals.

Crowley Park is on the west side of Dearborn south of Michigan Avenue and west of Telegraph Road. Geer Park is on Prospect Street south of Michigan Avenue and east of Greenfield Road.

The City Council asked the Recreation Committee to examine the issue of allowing dogs in city parks after hearing from residents who wanted to walk their pets in the parks. The committee recommended the ordinance change.

This summer, Dearborn plans to open a separate dog park where canine companions will be allowed to romp off the leash, but still under the supervision of their owners or other responsible adults. The park is under construction behind the Henry Ford Centennial Library at 16301 Michigan Avenue. Owners will be asked to pay a $30 annual fee to use the dog park. Only Dearborn residents will be allowed to use the dog park.

The City of Dearborn requires all dogs over the age of six months to have a valid, city-issued dog license at all times. Proof of a rabies vaccination is required to obtain the license.

Photo Courtesy the city of Dearborn