Bark park opens to healthy crowd

The River Bend Dog Park opened last Saturday to a healthy size crowd. Several community members and their dogs showed up for the grand opening. Located on Hot Springs State Park property between the railroad underpass and bridge, there are several different types of obstacles on the dog run.

The local Mustangs 4-H Club made the whole thing possible. They cleaned up the area and installed fencing as well as putting in individual dog obstacles.

Pets and owners were treated to collapsible dog dishes and cookies. A doggie gift basket made up of several items and two gift certificates to Owl Creek Veterinary Service were given away.

Guest speaker Kevin Dickey, from Owl Creek Veterinary Service, spoke to many of the pet owners about the health and welfare of their four legged friends. He spoke about how it is important to clean up after them to prevent disease and communicable health issues.

The park is set up for pet owners to clean up after their pets. State park employees will keep up on the maintenance of the facility. The park is open from sunrise to sunset.