The initial discussion focused mainly on the experiences of the Friends of Belfast Parks, whose efforts lead to the opening of the Belfast Dog Park in the summer of 2008. That project was completed with no expense to local taxpayers, and the park has continued to be maintained through private contributions and volunteer services. Organizers reported receiving a lot of financial and logistical support from people in the Bangor area.
Some of the attendees of this first meeting had led an effort to bring a dog park to Bangor about two years ago. They indicated that one of the many concerns expressed by city officials at the time was that a Bangor dog park would attract users from outside the city. In other words, there were fears of taxpayer-supported facilities being used by people who do not pay taxes in Bangor. The group expressed the intention to deal with this concern by making a dedicated effort to raise the funds for constructing and maintaining a dog park through private sources, from corporations and citizens alike, while seeking to partner with the city in the search for a suitable location.
Equally important to those involved in the initial meetings was the need for a public-education campaign regarding the use of off leash recreation areas. Don Hanson, co-owner of Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and Certified Professional Dog Trainer, was consulted several times. He advised that while a dog park presents a wonderful opportunity for most dogs to exercise and socialize, it could be a disaster for others if not set up and run properly. Plans are being made to ensure that potential park users are aware of their responsibilities as dog owners before bringing their dog to the park.
