Delhi can now boast of a dog park as the first one was inaugurated on Saturday at Capital’s Rajinder Nagar. The inauguration of the park was done by the North Corporation Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh and here pets can be taken out for a stroll and stretch by the pet parents, according to a statement issued by the civic body.

The enclosure is spread over an area of 1.5 acres and has swings, green patches for canines, and dog cartoons adorning the walls.

Singh in the statement said: "With the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic life of pet dogs and pet parents got confined to indoors and within limited space, making them fall prey to lifestyle diseases. Delhi's first dog park will help the pets to stay fit, rejuvenate and recreate in safe open spaces like parks.”

The Karol Bagh Zone Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Vishakha Yadav said a seamless registration counter has been installed to ensure adequate safety measures for the pets and the pet parents. "Different kinds of swings, including the ones made out of waste, will enthral the pet lovers and their babies,” she said.  Interestingly, the swings are made of waste material and discarded tyres.

At the inaugural ceremony free check up and free anti-rabies vaccination camp for pets was organised. Yadav said camps like this will be organised regularly.

The civic body in future is planning parks for other animals like cats, it was disclosed. Also facilities like sale of pet food, accessories and a veterinary clinic are being explored by the authorities for the benefit of pet owners.

Meanwhile, the South MCD is also planning to set up a park on similar lines either in Jangpura or Dwarka. The planned facility is likely to have pet grooming, an area for dogs and cats to stretch, a vet clinic and play area and stall for pet food, etc. There will also be space for digging, swimming and running.

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