WAVE 3 TV Louisville, KY | City allocates $85,000 for 3-acre park where dogs can roam free

City allocates $85,000 for 3-acre park where dogs can roam free

By Elizabeth Donatelli

(LOUISVILLE) -- City officials say they plan to begin enforcing leash laws that have been in place for awhile, but some people don't know where their dogs can legally roam free in Louisville's parks. And that could end up costing them money. WAVE 3's Elizabeth Donatelli explains.

For years, people have been bringing their pets to Cherokee Park to an area nicknamed "Dog Hill," and allowing them to run free whether -- it's been legal or not.

"Ashley and I go walking on the trails and we enjoy this hill because we can let her roam free, supposedly," said Joe Mees, who likes to walk to the park with his dog. "I'm not sure if that's the law or not."

Well, according to the law, dogs do need to be on a leash, even if they are in a public park. Now the city says it may begin enforcing that law.

"There is an ordinance on the books that says you can't leave your dogs off leash," said Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson. "The Metro Animal Services will enforce the laws they do throughout the community."

But now dog owners have a new option. The city is turning Cochran Hill in Cherokee Park into Dog Run.

On Friday Mayor Abramson announced a new plan for a 3-acre fenced-in dog park -- called Dog Run -- at the top of Cochran Hill inside of Cherokee Park. The city will allocate $85,000 for the park expansion.

"Even though I now have a house, I'm still totally thrilled," said dog owner Melony Lane.  "It's so much fun for the dogs to play with each other, and to be socialized and enjoy the park system."

Three acres will be fenced in and split in half -- one for small dogs and another for big dogs. Owners with aggressive dogs will be asked to leave. In the past, there hasn't been any enforcement at Dog Hill.

"Sometimes people would let their dogs off leash who had no business being off leash and Lucy was actually attacked up there one time," said one owner about her small dog. "It made her a little skittish about going around other dogs."

Dog owners must have permits to get inside. To get one, your dogs will need all of their shots. The permit costs $15 for 2007 and $25 for next. 

Even with all of these incentives, some don't think it will change anything.

"They get the hint with a couple citations, they'll probably get the message, but I'm sure that people will still come here and let the dogs roam free," said Mees.

Dog Run is expected to open in August. You can buy a permit at www.louisvilledogs.com or by calling MetroCall 311. 

Online Reporter: Elizabeth Donatelli

Online Producer: Michael Dever