Canton Names Dog Park After Beloved Park Advocate

CANTON, CT — Man or dog?

That was the choice the Canton Board of Selectmen faced last week before its unanimous vote to rename the Canton Dog Park in honor of local dog park advocate Alan Duncan.

Duncan died last September and was instrumental in the creation of the Canton Dog Park, which was one of many causes that he worked for in town.

Selectmen had mulled renaming the dog park after a late police dog named "Blue," but opted, instead, to name it after the man who fueled the effort for a dog park in the first place.

Selectman William Volovski said he supported renaming the park after Duncan, adding that, perhaps, a plaque could be installed to honor "Blue."

Canton First Selectman Kevin Witkos said Duncan worked hard at creating one of the best dog parks around.

"He overcame many difficulties in the creation of the dog park. It is now known as the best dog park in the area," Witkos said of Duncan. "He appreciated the many accolades and stories presented by residents. Naming the park after Mr. Duncan would show respect and honor him."

Witkos said he would present a new sign to the Friends of the Canton Dog Park.

The dog park features a safe, wide-open area for folks to let their canines roam and run freely, allowing both dogs and dog owners to socialize with each other.

It is located at 75 Commerce Ave. in Canton.

For the minutes of the Jan. 24 Canton Board of Selectmen meeting, click on this link.

For a video recording of the Jan. 24 Canton Board of Selectmen meeting, click on this link.