Dogs and owners enjoy new dog park in Portsmouth

Olivia MacDonald, 12, hands out treats to a group of dogs at the new Portsmouth Dog Park on Monday morning.

Photos by Richard W Dionne Jr

Mookie and Captain chase each other around the park.

Photos by Richard W Dionne Jr

Dogs frolic in the park.

Photos by Richard W Dionne Jr

Volunteer Judy Smith is visited by some of the dogs.

Photos by Richard W Dionne Jr

Jennifer Gardner walks her dogs out of the park after some fun time.

Photos by Richard W Dionne Jr

EastBayRI.com · Tuesday, January 17, 2017 2:26 pm

PORTSMOUTH — Residents and their dogs enjoyed the new off-leash dog park at Melville Park during a preview on Monday, Jan. 16. Dogs raced around the park as their owners chatted by the opening with leashes in hand. A volunteer put out water for the dogs and there were dog waste bags on hand as well.

The Dog Park Planning Committee opened the park for another preview day from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The dog park doesn’t officially open until the spring, but the committee is scheduling several preview days throughout the winter.

Other dog park news:

Forms for the remaining engraved pavers for the patio will be available at the park when it is open. Otherwise, they can be found at the Town Clerk's office, the library, or by checking the “Portsmouth Loves Dogs” Facebook page or at www.portsmouthdogpark.com.