Excitement is growing in Deer River as local community members work to bring a new dog park to life. Thanks to a generous $1,000 matching gift, every dollar donated now will go twice as far in helping to create a safe and fun space for dogs and their owners to enjoy.
The group leading the effort is working closely with the City of Deer River and the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation to raise the funds needed for fencing — the essential first step in developing the park. The minimum goal for the project is $25,000 (fencing alone is over $23,000), but the ultimate goal is $30,000 to allow for additional amenities such as benches.
“We’ve been busy working on the layout and are so excited to see the area the city has generously offered us made to good use for the community,” said Chelsea Pusc, owner of The Chocolate Dog. “This otherwise unused space will be absolutely perfect for a dog park with around an acre of high ground, grass, and nice trees. I know it will be an asset to our community to have a new inviting space for community members (and visitors!) to take their dogs to run around and play.”
The matching gift means that right now, every contribution — whether $25, $50, or $100 — will have double the impact. Community members and local businesses are encouraged to give and help ensure that Deer River’s first dog park can break ground soon.
There are donation buckets located in Deer River at The Chocolate Dog, Ladysippers, Dodge and Co, Cenex – Deer River, North Star Marketplace, Blueberry Hills Golf Course, Ace Hardware – Deer River. Donations can also be made through the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation online at gracf.org and searching for Deer River Dog Park. You can also send or drop off donations to GRACF at 350 NW 1st Avenue, Grand Rapids, Minnesota.
About the Project
The Deer River Dog Park will transform an unused city lot into a welcoming one-acre space where dogs can safely play off-leash and owners can connect. The park will feature secure fencing, a separate entry and exit system, and eventually community-friendly amenities like benches. The project is a partnership between community members, the City of Deer River, and the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation. For more information about the Deer River Dog Park, you can contact chelsea@thechocolatedog.com or 218-370-2126.
