The City of Moose Jaw says two dog parks on High Street West have reopened after testing and inspections. The dog parks were temporarily closed on June 26 after reports of a death and illness among dogs from a household that had visited the park. The City says it immediately tested water collected at the dog parks and an outside tap in the area. Those samples were submitted to the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s provincial laboratory – which found the samples met Canadian drinking water quality standards. The parks remained closed while toxicology tests were performed on the dog who died. On Thursday, the City confirmed the results did not identify evidence of any toxins connected to the dog parks. “We recognize how important these spaces are to local dog owners, and we appreciate residents’ patience while the City completed its review,” Scott Osmachenko, acting director of the City’s community recreation and parks services, said in a statement. “City crews have completed a final inspection and routine maintenance, and the parks are ready for public use.” The City reminded dog owners to keep track of any personal items, especially bowls and water bottles, while visiting the park – noting City staff will dispose of any items left at the parks during regular maintenance. The change in procedures is meant to reduce the potential for contamination, according to the City.
