Information

GOAL
To establish and maintain an off-leash dog park in the windward area for both large and small dogs.

MISSION STATEMENT
The Windward Dog Park Organization is a group of dedicated residents interested in the establishment of a fenced-in, off-leash dog park in the area.  In partnership with the City & County of Honolulu, we wish to develop a safe, clean, well-maintained park where owners can take their well-behaved canine citizens to freely exercise and socialize.  The dog park will be open to all dog-lovers and friends who are willing to respect and uphold the park's rules and regulations.  We regard this as a community project that will enrich the lives of both dogs and residents of the windward area.

BACKGROUND
In 2001, the Honolulu City Council passed legislation authorizing the Department of Parks & Recreation to establish off-leash dog parks.

The DPR indicated that it planned to establish two such parks in each of the four Regional Park Districts. District Four - Windward O`ahu - has no such facility being discussed at this time.

On January 24, 2004, a group of caring citizens from Windward O`ahu and outlying areas met to discuss the need for an off-leash dog park in hte Windward area. From this meeting, several committees organized, plans formulated, and time-lines drawn to campaign for this much-needed park.

This initial effort resulted in a Windward Dog Park Dog Walk on February 13 at City Hall. SpokesDog Dylan Kunisaki presented over 3,000 signatures to Mayor Jeremy Harris at this event. (Click here to view Dog Walk photos.)

SITES
The first sites under consideration were an area of land near Kalaheo High School and the Keaalau Neighborhood Park (44-500 Kaneoha Bay Drive). Both sites were reconsidered after closer inspection and review. Currently, we have the agreement of the Parks Department to use a site near between Bay View Golf Park and the sewage transfer station in Kaneohe but the City has to work out problems regarding access across private property.

ADVANTAGES OF OFF-LEASH DOG PARKS
Approximately 40% of all Windward area residents own dogs! A regional dog park such as the one proposed would have many advantages:

  1. Enables dogs to run, play, and exercise. Many area residents do not have the yard or the space to allow this. Also, it has been found that dogs who get adequate exercise are less likely to be nuisance barkers.

  2. Promotes the socialization between dogs and between people. Dogs who are accustomed to being around other people and other dogs make better and safer pets -- minimizing dog bites and/or aggressive behavior. Also, residents have the opportunity to make new friends and socialize with other dog lovers.

  3. Creates a location which is convenient to windward are citizens. Currently, dogs/handlers must drive to town or beyond to enjoy the dog parks that are available.

  4. Acknowledges the importance of dogs and the role that they play in our families and in our communities.