1. Dog Park Closed at Dark
With daylight savings ending this weekend the sun will set around 5:00 and earlier as we head toward the winter solstice. Remember the Shirlington Dog Park closes 30 minutes after sunset. Everyone and their dogs MUST be out of the park by then. The closest dog park that is open later is Ft Bernard, which is up the hill on Walter Reed Drive. It has lights and is open until 9:00 PM. See the Resources page for details and list of other dog parks open later.
2. Street Closure Sunday
This Sunday, Nov 5, the 2700 block of S. Oakland Street, which leads to the dog park, will be closed to all traffic from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM to accommodate the Valley Fest event. Street parking in the area will be very restricted. Motorists should be on the lookout for temporary “No Parking” signs. Illegally parked vehicles may be ticketed or towed. If your vehicle is towed from a public street, call the Emergency Communication Center at 703-558-2222. For additional event information, visit their website. Expect large crowds and traffic around the area. If you do come please be advised that NO food or alcohol is allowed in the dog park at any time.
3. New Trees
Two new crape myrtle trees were recently planted in the dog park. I have placed chicken wire around them to give the trees the best chance to survive. If possible please try to keep your dogs away from them for now. They should provide not only shade but a wonderful bloom as well soon.
4. Rabies
There was a report recently about rabid raccoons found in the county. Now is a good time to check to make sure your pets’ vaccinations are up to date. All dogs entering the dog park MUST have current rabies vaccination tags as well as their dog license tags on them.