New Westminster installs trial dog relief station

New Westminster – With the dog population in the downtown on the rise there has been an increase in dog waste appearing on the sidewalks. To address the issue, the City of New Westminster has installed a one-year triall dog relief station at the southeast corner of Begbie and Columbia Streets. The relief station is located within a portion of an existing garden bed and features fences, a bag dispenser, and artificial turf specifically designed for dogs to do their business.

“We’re privileged to have a beautiful and historic downtown but, unfortunately, with more dogs living in the area dog waste has become an issue,” said Parks and Recreation Manager Jay Young, “We encourage dog owners to take advantage of this creative and convenient option when walking their dogs in the downtown core.”

Unlike larger off-leash dog areas where dogs can socialize and exercise, the dog relief station is not an off-leash area and is designed specifically for dogs to relieve themselves. Over the next year staff will consider how often the dog relief station is being used, its impact on the amount of dog waste left on city sidewalks, along with feedback from downtown residents and businesses.

Community members are encouraged to provide their input by emailing active@newwestcity.ca.

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Contact:

Jay Young
Parks and Recreation Manager
New Westminster Park and Recreation
active@newwestcity.ca
604-777-5121