For as long as I can remember, Arroyo Viejo Recreation Center has always been a “No Dogs” in the park situation. However, when I became the Center Director, I found that enforcing that rule came with its own set of difficulties. Ever since Covid there seems to be more people with pets of all kinds, especially dogs. I guess between spending money ordering unnecessary items online and being cooped up at home with nothing to do, the comfort that a pet provided became an essential part of surviving both mentally and emotionally. However, now that the sequestered part of Covid is behind us the need for a safe place to walk dogs increased. That led to more dogs in the park despite the numerous posted signs that asked otherwise.
My team and I have been working feverishly to help make the park look nicer and to keep it safe. The number of families, joggers, walkers, and visitors in general has been steadily increasing. However, there were too many folks with their dogs off leash in the park. That was a safety issue for patrons of the park as well as for dog owners and their pets. So, I came up with what I felt was a happy compromise.
I made it my mission to talk to pet owners whenever I would see them in the park. I reminded them that this was a “no dogs” park, but that I was willing to look the other way if they could do me one favor, “Please keep your pet on a leash and clean up the poop.” About 90% of the folks that came here started following that simple little compromise. That was so amazing that I thought that I should do extra to show my appreciation…but what?
A couple of years ago the Oakland Animal Services asked if they could do a Free Veterinary Clinic here in the park. I agreed because I figured it would be an amazing way to reward the people that were sticking to the compromise.
I am overjoyed to say that this past October 27th was the seventh time that the “Free Veterinary Outreach Clinic + Human Health Too” event has been here at Arroyo Viejo. They served low-income families with dogs and cats living in Oakland by providing Veterinary exams, vaccinations, microchips, pet food, pet supplies, and much more. Everyone and their pets had a great time (check out some photos of the event). A big shout out to the incredible Oakland Animals Services Team. Hopefully, they can continue to provide this wonderful service for the pet owning community.
by Claytoven Richardson