EAST?LONGMEADOW – Six years ago the Rondeau family of East Longmeadow placed an article in The Reminder expressing their hopes to start a dog park in town.  Shortly after, a group was formed, by-laws were established, presentations were made to the town government and the Bark Park was born.  Now after the East Longmeadow’s Bark Park’s establishment, the park is celebrating the past five years.

At the start of the Bark Park, the group decided that they wanted to require dogs to be registered annually to show that they’re vaccinated.

“We presently have registered over 1,500 dogs from all over Western Massachusetts,” East Longmeadow Bark Park President Bill Couzelis said.

When the group began, they proposed a large dog and small dog area, and also wanted to have monitors during busy times to provide control.  At the start, the Bark Park received donations for benches, picnic tables and wood chips.

Now, the dog park is open from dawn untill dusk.  Recently, the Bark Park has received approval to install lighting so the park can be open until 7 p.m. during the winter months.  Soon, the group will begin to raise money for the lights after they’ve decided on the type of light needed and how expensive they will be.

“We have a reputation for having a clean park with the friendliest and most responsible dog owners and socialized dogs,” Couzelis said.

Over the years, Couzelis has noticed more community involvement with the town and the dog park.

“The town of East Longmeadow has provided the land for the park and supplies the waste bags for the garbage cans.  Part of the deal with the town was that we would not use taxpayer’s money to run the park.  Our budget runs about $2,000 per year that includes doggie waste bags, a dumpster, registration tags, stamps, envelopes and miscellaneous items needed,” Couzelis said. “We hope that the town will see what an asset the park is and help us with our budget.”

To commemorate the five-year anniversary of East Longmeadow’s Bark Park, the group is throwing a party on Oct. 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bark Park on North Main St.

“We will have doggy contests, including best costume, best trick, hot dog eating and agility.  We’ll be handing out free popcorn and cider to dog owners and treats to pups,” Couzelis explained.

Additionally, local contributions are being made from 99 Restaurant, Petco, A.W. Brown and Porter Road Animal Care.  Children are also welcome, as there will be free face painting available.