Barks and Recreation: The Challenge of Bringing a Permanent Off-Leash Park to Life

Where to add a permanent dog park to Jackson – this seems to be a question that no one can answer. So why are we bringing this up again?

In the last few months, PAWS has received multiple complaints about dogs running loose and harassing passersby in town parks, which are currently off limits to dogs. When dog owners were confronted about their lack of compliance, they were belligerent, dismissive, and threatening. In one instance, a dog owner said, "May Park is going to be a dog park". Regardless of this rumor, it is not a dog park now. Dog owners are simply ignoring the rules laid out on park signs and in the town code of ordinances.

However, this lingering promise of a dog park has raised people’s hopes, with no clear timeline as to when it will come to fruition. It is leading to residents taking matters into their own hands and creating conflicts.

Parks & Recreation created a Strategic Plan in 2018 that outlined adding dog parks to the town park system. Leading up to the creation of this plan, PAWS spent almost 2 decades advocating for dog parks and offering to fund development. Once the strategic plan was approved with Dog Parks listed as a Tier 1 priority. As stated in the plan, the goal was to complete these parks within two years. It has now been 7 years, and it is still well-documented that the community believes dog parks should be included within the Parks & Rec system.

In sharing these recent complaints with Parks & Recreation, and floating this topic back to the top of their list, we received this statement from the Teton County/Town of Jackson Parks & Recreation Advisory Board:

“The need for designated dog off-leash areas, including dog parks, in the Town of Jackson and Teton County is clear and longstanding. Both the 2018 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan and the 2024 Parks and Recreation Community Survey identify dog parks as a high community priority. In November 2025, the Parks and Rec Advisory Board voted to encourage the Town and County to continue exploring viable dog off-leash solutions, reflecting the community’s ongoing desire for safe, appropriate spaces that work for dogs, dog owners, and all park users."

While PAWS is no longer involved with the creation and funding for dog parks, we know that dog parks are essential for people (including those who are injured or have limited mobility) to exercise their dogs and socialize with other community members. A dog park not only serves dogs, but it also serves community members and visitors alike with a place to share information, recreate and enjoy a controlled off-leash space that does not interfere with wildlife or other users on shared trails.

PAWS has also gathered data that supports objective decision-making. We hired someone to take 1,200 individual readings at the seasonal dog park and other parks around town. We conducted decibel readings and counted cars, people, and dogs. What we found was that the dog park averaged three dogs, three people, and three cars with conversational-level noise. Dog parks are quieter than playgrounds.

So, when we hear community members perpetuating misrepresentations and instilling fear about what a dog park “might” be in a neighborhood, it is disappointing. We know what happens at dog parks: community members gather to share their love for their pets.

As a reminder, PAWS is a source of education, a listening ear, and a resource to ensure community members receive accurate information as it relates to animal welfare. PAWS has no authority to correct human behavior or change ordinances. We have encouraged those affected by dogs in public parks to file complaints with Parks & Recreation, the Town of Jackson Police Department, and through public comment at the County Commissioners meeting.

Looking ahead, this moment presents an opportunity—not for division, but for collaboration. Our community clearly cares deeply about its shared spaces, its neighbors, and its dogs. With respectful dialogue, data-driven decision-making, and renewed commitment from community leaders, Jackson can create a permanent off-leash solution that works for everyone. Until then, kindness, patience, and rule-following go a long way. When we listen to one another and work through the proper channels, we move closer to the outcome we all want: a safe, welcoming community where people, pets, and public spaces can thrive together.