Springfield dog owner Tinslee Poor registered her Chihuahuas, Brodie and Mattie, making them the 1,000th and 1,001st dogs registered for the park since its opening in November 2008. Poor received a one-year supply of milk bones and a dog leash, provided by the Citizens Dog Park Committee.

Poor and her two dogs moved recently to the area from out of state, where they were frequent users of the dog parks in that larger community. “My new landlord has his dog registered to use the Cruse Dog Park,” said Poor. “He recommended that I sign Brodie and Mattie up and commented about how fun the expansive park was. I’m really looking forward to the weather warming up and letting Brodie and Mattie interact with some new canine friends in this area.” 

The Cruse Dog Park is located at 2100 W. Catalpa St. and is Springfield’s only off-leash dog park. A fee of $25 per dog is required for 12 months of access to the Park, with a two dog limit per handler. Proof of vaccinations from a licensed veterinarian for Rabies, Parvo, Distemper, and Bordetella are required for the registration process. Applications are available by visiting the Park Board Office, 1923 N. Weller, or Chesterfield Family Center, 2511 W. Republic Road, or by calling (417) 864-1049 during normal business hours.

Daily passes are available for $10 per dog, per day, with a $10 “fob” deposit at both Chesterfield Family Center and the Park Board Office during normal business hours. Visit the Dog Park’s Web site at http://bit.ly/DYjPQ or at www.parkboard.org.