Urban planning – On November 18, a new dog wellness area was born in Saint-Ladre, in the town of Amiens. A unique project which responds to a growing demand from dog owners and which is already enjoying great success.
This project, initiated byOliver Spidera passionate dog trainer, was a winner during the first participatory budget of the City of Amiens in 2021. The latter wanted to create a unique space, dedicated to dogs and their owners, where the latter could both relax, spend and strengthen their bond with their animals in a secure environment. Located rue Raphaëlin the heart of the Saint-Ladre valley, this area is now a favorite place for dog lovers.
An urban planning project supported by the city
The city of Amiens supported this innovative project by allocating a sum of 48 100 € within the framework of participatory budgeting. This envelope made it possible to finance the arrangements necessary for the creation of the well-being area : a secure fence to demarcate the 2500 m² of the site, a container for the equipment and a water tank. Volunteers from the association Living well with your dogwhich manages the space, have also manufactured equipment intended to stimulate the dogs.
One of the strong points of this project is the use of QR Codesinstalled on site, which allow visitors to receive practical advice on the use of the equipment and on how to work on the education of their animals.
A varied offer for dogs and owners
The canine wellness area is distinguished by its organization and the diversity of its activities. She understands several distinct areas : a fitness trail for dogs, an education area, a corner dedicated to games and meetings between dogs, as well as a “caniflair” zone to promote the olfactory awakening of animals. To ensure a pleasant and safe experience, the wellness area only accommodates four adult dogs at a time, a capacity management that makes all the difference compared to traditional dog parks, which are often overcrowded.
The association also offers additional services, such as supervised walks and education courses, particularly for puppies. To date, more than 250 members have already joined the initiative, and around fifteen representatives ensure the daily opening of the site. If other volunteers come forward, new 45-minute slots may be added to meet the high demand.
The success of the canine wellness area was not long in coming. The space is already fulla clear sign that there is a real need for this type of service. Regular users include, for example, an owner of five dogs who comes three times a week. The owners seem won over by this new place, where their four-legged companions can thrive in complete safety.
To access the area, dogs must be vaccinated, identified, sociable and insured. Category 1 dogs are prohibited, but category 2 dogs can access it provided they wear a muzzle.
This innovative concept could well inspire other cities. Users of the dog wellness area hope that this initiative could be extended to other areas of the city, thus offering even more dogs and owners a place to relax and thrive.
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