New Off-Leash Dog Park at Waterfront Green

GLACE BAY - Last Saturday morning, the Glace Bay community celebrated the grand opening of the town’s first dedicated off-leash dog park, located on the former Heritage Pier site at 12 King Street. After months of planning, fundraising, and volunteer work, the park officially opened its gates at 10 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Mayor Susan McLaughlin, members of the Pet Safe Society, and dozens of local dog owners eager to let their pets roam free.

The 0.8-acre space has been expertly fenced and landscaped to include a separate area for small breeds, a large-dog section featuring agility equipment, and seating areas shaded by native spruce and birch trees. “We wanted to create a safe, secure environment where dogs of all sizes could run, play, and socialize without worry,” explained Pet Safe Society president Emma Sinclair. “Thanks to generous donations from local businesses—especially Cape Breton Brewing Co. and Mike’s Bulk Barn—the park is outfitted with benches, waste stations, and even a dog-friendly water fountain.”

During the opening event, Mayor McLaughlin praised the collaborative effort: “This project exemplifies what Glace Bay residents can achieve when we work together. Not only will the dog park improve quality of life for our four-legged friends, but it also provides a new gathering place for families and neighbours.” Councillor Derek MacDonald added that the municipal council has allocated funds for regular maintenance and hopes to expand the park’s lighting in the fall to allow safe evening use.

Local dog owners were on hand to share their excitement. “Buddy has needed a place like this for ages,” said resident Carla Fraser, who brought her energetic Labrador to test out the agility ramp. “He’s been zooming around non-stop! It’s wonderful to see so many familiar faces—both human and canine—getting to know each other.” Nearby shopkeeper Raj Patel, whose store donated dog treats for the grand-opening goodie bags, noted that he expects increased foot traffic along King Street as pet owners gather before or after visiting the park.

Volunteers from the Pet Safe Society will host weekly “Puppy Play Dates” every Saturday morning at 9 a.m., offering basic obedience tips and socialization advice for new puppy owners. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk, and annual memberships—required to help cover maintenance—are available for $25 per household, with a reduced rate for seniors. Interested dog owners can register at the Glace Bay municipal office or online at www.glacebay.ca/dogpark.