Story and photos by Monty Siekerman
Who likes to play ball? Kids
Who likes to chase around? Kids
Who likes to eat a treat? Kids
Who likes to play in the rain? Kids
Who likes to splash in mud puddles? Kids
Who likes to give kisses? Kids
But we are not talking kids here, we are describing dogs who had the time of their lives at the official opening of the Ada Dog Park on Saturday morning. Despite on-and-off drizzle, about 40 people and 10 dogs were on hand for the festivities.

The Ada Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony. Officials of the Ada Dog Park Association the Village of Ada, and the Mayor made brief remarks, citing the new park for pooches as an example of a dynamic community. 

The speakers made references to improvements at the swimming pool, an addition and renovation of the library, new businesses opening, major construction occurring on campus as examples of an improvement in the quality of life here in Ada.

And, thanks were handed out to the Dog Park Association, which did the planning and raised $45,000 for the project; the park board for its cooperation and land use; the village for the fence from the pool; and the donors who gave money. 

Mayor Dave Retterer summed it up, “This is a remarkable accomplishment.”

All the while, the dogs—large and small—romped around, smiles on their faces, happy to be off-leash and making new friends. They, and their human companions, were treated to goodies afterwards, dog treats for the puppies and cookies for the people.

The Ada Dog Park is located at the end of East Lehr Avenue, which is a street even many local residents are not familiar with. Suffice it to say that dog owners easily can find the park by turning east at the Church of Christ on Main Street.

The Ada Dog Park is large: 300’x100’. There is an area for large dogs and one for small dogs. There is a shelter and benches. Water (and poop bags) are available. Several shade trees have been planted.

It’s a go! Woof!

Photo: Ken Lauria, Dog Park Association; Mayor Dave Retterer; Rhonda Crouse, Dog Park Association; Deb Curlis, Chamber of Commerce; Jamie Hall, Village Administrator.