Who let the dogs out? The dog owners at Briarwood Continuing Care Retirement Community, that’s who! “We wanted a place for our dogs to run and play,” says Ruth Lewis, one of the Briarwood Dog Park’s organizers. Her Beagle, “Timmy” enjoys romping in the park. “We are one of the few retirement communities who allow dogs,” beams Barbara Smith, who is constant companion to her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, “Honey.” “This is just fantastic!”
The Dog Park Committee has been meeting for several months strategizing how to make it all happen. “We decided to do our own fundraising,” says resident, Kim Woodbury. “Many people, not only dog owners came out of the woodwork to help the cause.” My”Tootsie” is a very happy dog!
Don Crosby who owns a standard poodle named “Calla” is pleased with the park. “My dog is one of the larger ones, and he really needs to exercise. This is a good way to wear her out!” Joan Powell, who owns one of the smallest dogs, “Bella”, a Maltese, loves the setting. “It’s a beautiful spot in the woods where we can all sit on benches, chat and enjoy watching our dogs romp. ”
David and Marilyn Bayer are loyal “dog sitters” for their children’s dogs, Springer Spaniel, “Maggie,” and Sato dog, “Lupita.” They agree that it’s “so nice to know our canine dogs are welcome at Briarwood.”
According to CEO John Zoltowski, there has been “a desire of residents and their canine colleagues to establish a joyful, exterior playground. ” The site is now located in the woodlands above the Birches Building. Visiting dogs accompanied by their Masters are welcome to the park. There’s no doubt about it. Life is good for the residents and the dogs at Briarwood!
Briarwood is a non-profit community that includes Independent Living cottages & apartments, Assisted Living apartments, and the Knollwood Nursing Center for skilled nursing & rehabilitation services.