Dog Park Dreams Alive and Well in Southwest Boston

A couple of months back you may remember JP/West Roxbury District Councilor Matt O'Malley calling in our area, specifically at . But maybe that's the last you heard about it.

In fact, the meetings continue and a small group of people have formed a non-profit organization called the Dog Park Association of SouthWest Boston, Inc.

They have been meeting regularly to find an alternative spot where a fenced-in doggy play area can be built. They are looking for a place that would serve West Roxbury, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, and Roslindale. Millenium Park was taken off the table because, between the cap of the landfill and the surrounding wetlands, there was no place to put the park.

The Dog Park has an official website: http://dogparkboston.org. They want people to join as members (for a minimum donation of $10) so your voice can be heard when they do find a space. You can make donations on the website and contact them at info@dogparkboston.org with more questions. They are also on Facebook here or by searching for Dog Park Association of SouthWest Boston, Inc.

Jamaica Plain is home to several "unofficial" dog parks, including in Forest Hills and Peter's Hill in the .

And of course the website explains why advocates say a dog park is so important: It builds community, reduces crime, and makes better canine citizens.

Got any suggestions for where a dog park can be built in the area? Millennium Park is not an option. Leave suggestions below this article.