All dogs and their people are invited to the Hawaii Island Humane Society’s Central Bark Dog Park grand opening Saturday on Mamalahoa Highway (Highway 180) in Keauhou Mauka near the Hawaii County Water Department.
Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with the untying of a maile lei followed by refreshments served from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. A DJ will be on hand and tours of the welcome center and the animal community center site will be available.
The complex includes two dog parks for small and large dogs with double-gated entry and exit points, people benches, ample parking, shade areas and a bone-shaped splash pad. There also are canine portraits by local artist Kathleen Dunphy that adorn the entry and perimeter fencing.
The Hawaii Island Humane Society will have county dog licenses for sale for unlicensed dogs.
For more information, visit www.hihs.org.
Bark park rules
• Vaccinations and county dog license should be current.
• Dogs and children must be accompanied by an adult.
• A maximum of three dogs per adult.
• Owners must carry a leash and closely supervise their dogs and children.
• Aggressive, mounters, in heat or sick dogs not allowed.
• Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting.
• Off-leash dogs should be under voice control.
• Strollers, carriages, bicycles and toys are not allowed.
• Equipment is for dogs only.
• Children cannot climb on equipment or play in water features.
• Pick up and dispose of dog poop immediately.
• People are asked to exit if their dog becomes unruly.
