Jane Bowers Dog Park – Sechelt, British Columbia
Located at 5730 Ebbtide Street in Sechelt Village, Jane Bowers Dog Park is a one‑acre, fully enclosed off‑leash dog park named in tribute to the late local animal advocate Jane Bowers. The District of Sechelt’s only fully fenced official dog park, it opened on June 19, 2022 after strong community support including more than 75 letters to council.
Dog Areas
At the heart of the park are its dedicated dog-only zones designed to balance safety, socialization, and variety:
- Fully fenced enclosure: the park spans approximately one acre and is entirely enclosed by secure fencing to ensure dogs cannot escape. Entry and exit are managed through a double‑gate system to prevent accidental escapes.
- Small‑dog section: a separate, fully fenced area intended to provide a calm space for smaller or more timid dogs. This reduces the risk of accidental collisions and ensures a comfortable environment for all sizes.
- Open play area: the main grassy region within the enclosure is expansive enough for fetch, running, and social play among dogs. It’s ideal for high‑energy pups to burn off energy.
- Wooded/ shaded area: a lovely corner of the park features trees, mulch ground cover, and shade—offering a quieter atmosphere for resting, scent‑driven exploration, or peaceful bonding times between dogs and owners.
- Water fountain & dog bowl: a fresh water service and drainage system was installed specifically to support a dog‑height drinking fountain with built‑in bowl. This ensures hydration throughout visits.
- Waste stations: several dog‑bag dispensers and garbage bins are placed at strategic entry points inside the enclosure to encourage cleanliness and ease of use. Please remember to bag and dispose of your dogs feces when using the park.
The design intentionally supports community dog etiquette: all dogs must be leashed on approach and exit until inside the gate, and owners remain responsible for their dog’s behaviour and cleanup.
Other Areas
Beyond the dog‑only zones, Jane Bowers Dog Park includes thoughtfully designed shared spaces and amenities for human visitors:
- Picnic tables & park benches: a handful of picnic tables and benches are located both in sunny and shaded spots outside and near the entrance, allowing pet guardians to relax and socialize while keeping an eye on their dogs.
- Public washrooms: conveniently available near the retail or public areas adjacent to the park, enhancing comfort during extended visits.
- Gazebo / shelter (in development): the Rotary Club of the Sunshine Coast is fundraising to add a shelter structure for weather protection and gatherings—expected to improve the park’s usability in rain or shine.
- Landscaped greenspace: the site was previously a Public Works yard; old asphalt and structures were removed, hazardous trees cleared, and new lawns seeded. Mature trees and a landscaped woodland area now provide natural beauty and environmental benefit. This creates lovely shaded areas to relax in on those hot days!
- Infrastructure & drainage: new water service and connection to the municipal storm sewer system were installed during surrounding road improvements to support the fountain and site drainage.
- Interpretive historical context: while not a formal interpretive forest, the transformation of a working yard into a community‑centred greenspace connects to broader District park initiatives outlined in the 2018 Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan.
The combination of built amenities and natural landscaping makes the park welcoming not only for dogs but also for owners seeking comfort, shade, seating, and aesthetic appeal.
Parking:
There is no parking lot at the park, but there is street parking available on the surrounding streets.
References
- Your Say Sechelt – Jane Bowers Dog Park development
- Coast Reporter – Article on park opening and legacy
- District of Sechelt – Off‑Leash Dog Parks page
- Rotary Club of the Sunshine Coast – gazebo fundraiser for dog park
