L.A. County to open first off-leash dog park in Crescenta Valley

Los Angeles County’s first ever off-leash dog park will officially open to the public Friday, marking the culmination of more than five years of work and grass-roots lobbying.

The $645,000, 1.5-acre fenced area at Crescenta Valley Park, 3901 Dunsmore Ave., was built using funds from Proposition A, approved by voters in 1992 to maintain and upgrade facilities at regional parks, beaches, museums and zoos.

The park includes two sections — one for large dogs and another for smaller canines. There are also drinking fountains, walkways, a 6-foot fence and a hose-off area and shade for pet owners, the Glendale News-Press reported.

The park, which went through a trial run last month to test the amenities, is the culmination of a 5½-year effort by the group Community Volunteers for Dogs Off-Leash Gathering and Socializing. The organization’s treasurer, Cheryl Davis, is expected to join other officials, including county Supervisor Mike Antonovich, during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m.

Also at the event, animal control officials will hold a pet adoption fair and offer low-cost vaccines for dogs, and Andersen’s Pet Shop will be offering a free microchip implantation service. Other vendors and activities are also planned, according to county officials.

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-- Jason Wells, Times Community News

Photo: Chip, a Chocolate labrador, runs with his his ball during a trial run of the new off-leash dog park last month at Crescenta Valley Park. Credit: Libby Cline / For Times Community News