Between a dog and a green space: applying ecosystem services theory to explore the human benefits of off-the-leash dog parks

Abstract

Off-the-leash dog parks offer a range of benefits both to canines and humans, yet face considerable opposition. Overcoming this opposition requires a better understanding of the human benefits of dog parks and how these benefits can be facilitated through park design and location. Using a comparative case study in Perth, Western Australia, and adopting the theoretical framework of ecosystem services, this paper explores the potential of dog parks to facilitate physical activity, social interactions and stress restoration. When compared to a more traditional public green space, the case study dog park was found to have poor potential to increase physical activity, however great potential to facilitate social interactions. Results for stress restoration were less conclusive yet still promising. A ‘quantity over quality’ approach to designing and locating future dog parks is proposed, including greater utilisation of dog parks to activate under-used parkland, with areas for future research also identified.