Paws and Play Dog Park: A Vital Community Space for Marshfield’s Canines
MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – For the past 16 years, Paws and Play Dog Park has been a staple in Marshfield, offering a dedicated space for dogs to exercise, socialize, and release energy. Located off Peach Avenue, this park isn’t just a place for dogs—it’s a community effort powered by a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, run entirely by volunteers. As Board President Jessi Betz explains, the park is driven by a group of passionate individuals who love what the park stands for: a safe, off-leash environment where dogs and their humans can bond and play.
Challenges Facing Paws and Play
Over the years, fundraising has been a challenge. Phil, a past president, worked tirelessly to establish fundraising opportunities, such as drink sales at the local fair. However, recent changes in the fair’s policies have cut off that revenue stream, leaving the park more reliant on community donations.
“We need monthly donations and support from our community,” Betz said, noting that all board members work full-time jobs, making it difficult to organize and complete fundraisers. Essential operational costs—such as servicing the port-a-potty, garbage removal, and maintaining insurance—continue to strain the park’s budget. While some community members use the park’s facilities regularly, donations don’t always follow.
“We must maintain insurance to stay open,” Betz said, as it’s both a contractual obligation and a safety measure.
How You Can Help
There are multiple ways to support Paws and Play Dog Park. Regular fundraisers are posted on their Facebook page, and the next one is set for Thursday, October 17th, with a Dine to Donate event at the Walmart Subway from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.
In addition, donations can be made directly through Forward Bank, where park supporters can open a Charitable Money Market Savings Account with Paws and Play as the charity of choice. Each January, the park receives a donation from Forward Bank. Online donations can be made via their website or through PayPal, and a locked donation box is checked daily at the park’s warming shelter.
For those interested in supporting the park in style, their new apparel line is available online.
Park Rules and Regulations
Paws and Play is open to all non-aggressive dogs that are current on their vaccinations. Children over eight are welcome, but it’s important to remember that this is a park primarily for the dogs. Betz emphasizes the need for safety, especially around younger children.
“If we have a dog that launches over a picnic table and there is a baby sitting on top of it, the fallout could be catastrophic,” she explained, reinforcing that children under eight are not allowed in the park.
The Importance of Paws and Play Dog Park
Having this space in Marshfield is vital, not just for the dogs but also for the humans who care for them.
“Dogs need regular exercise, and dog parks provide a place for them to release pent-up energy,” Betz said. Beyond that, the park fosters a sense of community among dog owners, giving them a place to bond with like-minded individuals.
Clearing Up Misconceptions
One common misunderstanding is that the park is funded or operated by the city. It is not. The park is entirely volunteer-run and relies on donations to remain open. The group behind Paws and Play is dedicated to creating a space that will serve Marshfield’s canine community for years to come.
For more information or to support Paws and Play Dog Park, visit their website or follow them on social media. Every donation helps ensure this vital community space continues to thrive.
We welcome your stories! Contact us at [email protected]!
Author: News Desk
This piece was posted by our news team! Contact us or submit stories at [email protected].
