How Pooch Park in the Pines came to be...

In the late summer of 2009, a handful of eager volunteers, led by our founder Linda Hubbard, stood where our parking lot is today and looked at five acres of dense woods, tangled undergrowth, and illegal dumping. We had a dream—but no money, no staff, and no idea how we were going to make it happen.

Moore Humane generously allowed us to use the property, with one condition: we had to fund, build, and manage the park ourselves.

So we went to work.

So there we were: a handful of volunteers with a dream, unblistered hands, and no funds. We met, made plans, and learned what determination could accomplish. Linda showed us what fundraising could do. Our first two Woof Woof Open golf tournaments brought in more than $12,000, thanks to ready, sweaty volunteers—no one taking a salary or a dollar.

We solicited donations from local businesses and generous individuals. Companies and neighbors brought tractors, trucks, and chain saws. Together we cleared trees, chopped logs, and removed glass and debris from land that had been used as an illegal dumping ground. We bought the fencing, ran the water, built the parking lot, and put in the gazebos—everything you see and use today.

There is no Pooch Park board, boss, or sheriff. We are self-governed and maintained by volunteer effort. Loyal members help pick up, fill water bowls, welcome new members, join clean-up days, care for their dogs, and serve as ambassadors for the park. It cannot happen without them, and it would not have happened without Linda Hubbard.