Public Drinking Water Fountain for People and Pets

The Cause

Our beautiful community off-leash park in Rotary Park on the east side of Crescent Heights overlooking downtown is perfect in so many ways but there is no running water for the dogs and people who use it. We have engaged a contractor to install a dual human/dog water fountain in conjunction with the Mount Pleasant Tennis Club and are banding together as a community to raise the funds to make it happen and we need some help with the cost. Hundreds of people use this park on a daily basis with their children and dogs year round but especially in the summer months. The proposed project will provide a drinking water fountain with a fountain pet bowl.
Access to clean drinking water is essential maintaining good health, both for humans and animals. The lack of a drinking fountain in Rotary Off-Leash Park poses a problem for both park goers and their pets who may become dehydrated during extended periods of play or exercise. In addition, the current practice of bringing water bottles or bowls for pets can create litter and is not environmentally friendly. Having a drinking fountain for both humans and pets will allow longer visits to Rotary Park; more time for socializing with neighbors and the public at large, more physical activity for children and pets and more healthy living through proper hydration for all.

Who Will it Benefit?

Residents of our community, the many visitors to our community, the houseless, walking commuters to downtown who frequent the park, through the walking, wheeling paths will benefit. Going for a walk with your dog and child is an informal, expressive and even spontaneous activity. Blowing off steam for children, dogs and even parent is sometimes necessary for clearing the mind, body and elevating endorphins. Accessibility as it relates to proximity and cost makes our off leash park appealing across our community demographics. According to the 2019 Calgary civic census, more persons were living in apartments in Crescent Heights than those in single family housing. A total of 3,118 persons lived in the 2,208 apartment units. The federal census showed that renter households accounted for more than half (57%) of the private households. Outdoor amenities for this apartment, renter population their children and pets are critical to their social and active wellbeing. Many multifamily dwellings in Crescent Heights are largely comprised of low rise apartment buildings, older multi family, three, four storey walk ups, many without balconies, green or safe outdoor spaces for residents, tenants and homeowners alike to socialize, build strong interpersonal connections, and foster synergy and cohesion.