By Katelin Montag
In cities like Tulsa, it is not always easy to find wide open spaces to let your dogs run around in. Tulsa’s two off-leash dog parks are giving city dwellers a solution to that problem while having a highly welcoming atmosphere.
The day I visited Joe Station Bark Park in West Tulsa, I found it to be a perfect example of friendliness and courtesy. Everyone was following the posted rules and even the dogs seemed to be in a cheerful mood.
Dogs are the center of attention at Joe Station Bark Park. They are celebrated in the design of the park with images of bones and separate areas for large and small dogs to play in. Bleachers are also provided outside of the fence for those who want to watch the dogs play from a distance.
My favorite part of the park was seeing the interactions between the dog owners. The dogs are encouraged to roam around and play with the other dogs at the park and whenever a pair of dogs would become friendly with one another, so would the owners.
Conversations were borne out of discussing the traits and personalities of each dog and what could easily turn into a competition usually developed into friendly chats. I couldn’t help thinking of the Midwestern charm I always hear about being a part of Tulsa, but rarely notice after so many years of living here.
The dog parks not only provide a service for Tulsa’s pets, but also showcase the ability of people to work together to create a pleasant environment for everyone.
Katelin Montag is a TU senior majoring in communication, minoring in English. An international baccalaureate graduate of Tulsa's Booker T. Washington High School, she plans to work as a news writer.
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