The Zhongzheng Pet Park in Kaohsiung City is situated between the highway ramp, Zhongzheng Road, and Sanduo Road. Many people are unaware that this area is specifically designed as a pet park for dogs. Recently, the Kaohsiung City Government has utilized a corner of Zhongzheng Park in Lingya District to establish a dedicated pet park.
City Councilor Huang Wenyih stated that the Taiwan Animal Protection Administrative Supervision Alliance has evaluated pet parks across various counties and cities in Taiwan, finding that Kaohsiung's facilities do not meet the required standards and are fewer in number compared to those in Taipei, New Taipei, and Taoyuan.
In contrast, the Pingtung County Government has been quicker in its actions regarding pet parks. In July of this year, they completed renovations of the Pingtung Riverside Pet Park, aligning it with the standards set by the Animal Protection Alliance.
Future Plans for Kaohsiung's Pet Parks
Lin Zhidong, Director of the Kaohsiung City Engineering Office, announced plans to develop another pet park in the Gangshan 87th Phase Redevelopment Area. Three explanatory meetings have already been held with the Agricultural Bureau's Animal Protection Division and animal welfare organizations. The design will include features such as sand pits, tunnels, climbing frames, and facilities for agility dog training. Additionally, the park will cater to the needs of both large and small dogs by creating designated activity areas.
Criteria for Pet Parks
Huang Wenyih highlighted that the Animal Protection Alliance evaluates pet parks based on 11 basic indicators. These include:
- Dog breed zoning
- Double-gate safety measures
- Grass coverage
- Pet drinking water facilities
- Dog waste bags
There are also "advanced requirements," such as professional grass with underlying wire mesh, surveillance cameras, nighttime lighting, handwashing stations, water play areas, and varied terrain.
Current Status of Pet Parks in Taiwan
While Kaohsiung has made some provisions with shaded areas and basic dog play equipment in Zhongzheng Park, it lacks essential drinking water facilities for pets. The park is located at the end near the highway, making it less known to many residents.
As of now, Taipei boasts seven pet parks, New Taipei has 18, Taoyuan has eight, while Taichung and Tainan each have one park. However, the facilities at Taichung and Tainan generally meet the standards set by the Animal Protection Alliance.
Pingtung County's Initiatives
The Agricultural Department of Pingtung County noted that their Riverside Pet Park attracts pet owners from the Gao-Ping area. Originally occupying 0.2 hectares, it was expanded to 0.5 hectares this year with an investment of approximately NT$3.3 million. The renovated park features a flip-style fence replacing plastic netting, illustrated signage for better visibility, handwashing stations for pet cleanliness, artificial rain shelters, and benches for rest during hot weather.
The friendly business "Dog Pingtung Pet Supplies Store" has sponsored dedicated waste bags for the park. Staff members regularly maintain cleanliness within the area to ensure a safe and enjoyable space for pets.
