On a beautiful, clear, September morning a group of people (and their furry friends) gathered for an exciting event – the Grand Opening of Harrisonburg’s very first Dog Park.

The Happy Dogs Unleashed Dog Park boasts two large fenced areas (one for large, and one for small dogs), waste clean-up stations, benches, picnic tables, a double-gate entry/exit, and plenty of trees for shade.

After some brief opening remarks, the leash over the gate was cut, and the dogs were let loose to have the time of their lives.

Source: Happydogs Unleashed Facebook

Here are a few snapshots from the day.

There were big dogs and little dogs…

….sleek dogs…

…fluffy dogs…

…and even dogs that look like a giant stuffed animal.

There were happy greetings and many new friends made.

There was lots of running…

…and chasing…

…and playing.

There were frisbees…

…and a game of keep-away.

There were lots of tennis balls…

…and even an impromptu game of “tackle ball”.

With all that playing, periodic water breaks had to be taken.

There were even treats…which brought all play to a standstill.

And, of course, there were tongues….lots of tongues…

But most of all, there were dogs that were ridiculously happy to be able to run free with friends.

So, if your canine companion wants some new dog friends and some space to run around, head on over to 1646 Smithland Road between 8am and dark. Check out the Rules and Policies of the Dog Park before you go.

There is only one way to this dog park…It leads straight to a tail-wagging good time.