Tehachapi, California has its first dog park thanks to some dedicated dog lovers. This took years of organizing, many city meetings, and a lot of dedication to get the park. Here is what one of the main organizers of the park had to say about her experience... hopefully it will inspire others to either start the process or continue in their quest to off leash doggie happiness.

"We're in a rural town of 40,000 people, and many people have never used a dog park. Sad to say, but a lot of them just let their pets run free... with no ID tags. I started by writing letters to the editor of our local newspapers and magazines, explaining why we needed a dog park.

Then, my employees and I began collecting petition signatures at our retail store. When the list approached 500 signatures, my husband and I began attending parks department board meetings, signatures in hand, speaking on behalf of the project. Because the park is in a non-incorporated area of the County, we had to also seek their approval.

It took 2 years to get the budget approved by all the government agencies, then there was a change in park management, so it took another 2 years to make it happen. My husband did the layout drawings, and we put together a list of everything that was needed - fencing requirements, signage, supplies & equipment. Basically, we handed parks the finished product... all they had to do was build it.

We also pulled together a dog park committee of community leaders (humane society board members, pet sitters, dog trainers, private rescues, pet retail store owners, etc.) to consult with parks -- design a logo, set the park rules, help with fundraising, etc. A long road, and I never thought we'd get to the finish line, but we did it." -Susie Atherton owner of Canine Creek Pet Wash & Boutique