Town Opens its First Dog Park

Bellmore residents, both two- and four-legged, joined Town of Hempstead Supervisor Anthony Santino for the opening of the town's very first dog park on Wednesday.

The new park is located at Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore, and is open to all Town of Hempstead residents.

“This is a great destination where dogs can play, socialize, burn off excess energy and share some quality time with their furry and human companions,” said Santino. “We are excited to unveil the Town of Hempstead’s first dog park, a state-of-the-art facility now open and free for all town residents and their dogs.”

Local canines are sure to have a doggone good time at the 14,025-square-foot park, comprised of a paw-friendly synthetic turf surface and including ramps, weave poles, hurdles and other fun amenities. The park will also have picnic tables, benches, shaded areas and water fountains for both people and dogs.

The park is open only to Town of Hempstead residents and their dogs. Owners must provide their pet’s current rabies vaccination tag and current Town of Hempstead dog license. Other rules apply, and can be found here.

Dog parks offer large swaths of land for canines to run around and play in the sun, when they would otherwise be cooped up indoors or in a small backyard. What’s more, increased physical activity and social interaction can benefit a dog’s behavior back at home.

Newbridge Road Park is already home to basketball, handball and tennis courts, softball, baseball and multi-purpose fields, game tables, a playground, an outdoor pool and even an indoor ice rink. The dog park will be located on the south end of the park.

For more information about the dog park, please call the Newbridge Road Park Administrative Office at (516) 783-2500.

Photos: Town of Hempstead.