Parks in Colwood should be a bit cleaner, thanks to a donation by veterinarian Dr. Chris Collis.
Collis owns both Eagle Rise and Glenview animal hospitals on the West Shore. Through his clinics he plans to provide dog waste bags, posts, dispensers and signage at five Colwood parks. The two animal hospitals have pledged to pay for bags for the next three years.
“We saw the article in the **Gazette about Lookout Lake (and issues with dog feces),” said Sara McGeachy, veterinary assistant. "We wanted to get the word out and keep our parks clean."
Staff at the animal hospitals reached out to the City of Colwood who selected Lookout Lake, Colwood Creek Park, Havenwood Trail, Latoria Creek Park and Esquimalt Lagoon.
“It’s great to get animals out in the parks to get lots of exercise and socialize with other dogs,” McGeachy said. “We have great beaches and parks here so we should all make the most of it.”
Colwood Mayor Carol Hamilton was pleased to hear the local business owner wanted to help.
“It’s phenomenal. One less doggy doo doo on the ground has got to be a good thing and parents of young children will be so happy,” Hamilton said. “This helps to encourage (dog owners) to be responsible and pick up after their pets.”
Hamilton explained she's seen dog owners carry one bag of dog poop, only to have their dog go again.
“I see them scrambling for something and often flick it with a stick,” said Hamilton.
Colwood staff will restock and monitor the dispensers.