Dog Park Opens in Teaneck

An off-leash dog park at Phelps Park is now officially open, the township announced Monday.

Teaneck dog owners had already started using the park over the last several months, but Monday's announcement marked its formal opening.

The Township Council last month approved an ordinance setting rules for the dog run.

"Dogs running off leash in the fenced-in area must be licensed and have all up-to-date shots. They must wear collars and identification tags while in the park. Of course, owners must clean up after their dogs," the township announcement said. "Dogs younger than four months are barred, along with dogs determined to be aggressive.”

Dog owners would be held legally responsible for any damage or injuries their animals cause, according to the ordinance.

The project cost approximately $20,000, officials have said. Crews removed an abandoned above ground town swimming pool and converted the space into the dog run. The fenced-in run includes water and benches.

Before moving ahead with the project, the town ran a pilot program allowing owners to have their dogs off leashes in Phelps Park. Officials have said the test didn't lead to any resident complaints.

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