City Dog Parks - Research Proposal Example

(Pena, p.vii) According to Sookly, with the developing magnitude of dogs in the lives of citizens and in thickly populated metropolitan settings, require for a site has augmented where public with their dogs may concurrently intermingle and entertain. The noticeable boost in the present dog parks all over the country is a proof of this claim of dog possessors and the cohorts. However, due to the absence of empirical study on dog parks and their attributes of non-market values, the benefits of dog parks are often underestimated and considered less in the decision making process regarding resource allocation.(p. iii) This research is intended to serve as a planning strategy of a potential dog park considering its possible usage, services to the users in support of their expected activities keeping in view their preferences and needs and to establish the fact that such parks are not mere exercise spot for the dogs but are a mode to meet people's need of socializing and entertaining foliage like other parks.

As discussed earlier that enough empirical research on this topic has not yet been conducted yet, this study may add as a awareness source offering data on essential information regarding the application and users of such parks, number a. Research Questions:Attempts will be made in this research to answer following questions:1. Do the distance between a dog park and the user's residence have negative relationship for the visit frequency and user satisfaction'2. What are probable features to be considered in planning a new dog park'3.

Why are dog parks found in some areas and not in others in the light of assessed locations'Literature ReviewMuch has been written in the literature about physical benefits of human-dog companionship. A survey conducted by APPMA in 2005 concludes the 59% of dog holders suggest that dogs impact positively upon their health and make them relaxed, 49% are of the opinion that doss keep them in regular practice of exercise. According to Siegel senior citizens possessing dogs less frequently visit the doctor than those having no dogs. (p. 157-167)A conjectural prototype of human health in relation with pets was presented by Statts et al.

as shown in figure 1. The fitness and health status of the pet owner is said to have affected by the extent of emotional connection with the pet. Figure 1: A Theoretical Model for Human Health and Pet Connection (Statts, 1999 adapted)A dog park is a place for specially designated free running areas which allow dogs to romp and play, offering adventure and exploration. (Harlock and Jackson, in Sookly P.) Some parks are managed by dog owners' groups in cooperation with the local government, but some are privately operated.

Most developed dog parks during last decade are founded by dog owners with grass-root support. (McLaughlin,