SALEM - No more leashes, choke chains or muzzles. The city's dogs are looking forward to a place of their own.

When it's completed, Salem's first-ever dog park will feature a brick walkway, picnic tables and a stone water bowl in the shape of a dog bone.

Yes, a dog's life in Salem just got a lot easier.

Crews have installed a chain-link fence around a section of Leslie's Retreat Park, marking the first phase of the dog-friendly haven. Already, owners have started bringing their beagles, black Labs and cocker spaniels down to the park, even a month before its formal dedication.

"I guarantee you this dog park will have more use than any playground in the city," said Doug Bollen, director of the parks, recreation and community services division. "People are really passionate about their pets."

The park is the result of three years of planning and fundraising by a group of dog lovers called SPACE (Salem Play Area for Canine Exercise). The $15,000 project is being funded by private donations, though the city will continue to mow the grass and maintain the park.

A comedy night about three years ago raised $3,000. A mailing to Salem's 2,000 dog owners raked in $1,200. A citywide raffle made more than $5,000. And corporate sponsors, such as All Creatures Veterinary Hospital, the Barking Cat and Petco in Salem, have all stepped in with checks, as well.

"We've been nonstop for three years to get this dog park done," Bollen said.

And it's still not completely paid for. Soon, the group will start selling bricks, where owners can have their pets' names engraved as part of the park's walkway for $50 per brick. They also hope to raise enough money for plantings and landscaping.

The new park has something for every dog - even one with a height complex. A separate section of the park will be cordoned off exclusively for smaller dogs.

"For the dogs, it's a great way to exercise and get your dog to socialize with other dogs," said Bart Hoskins, one of the park's organizers. "Especially for puppies, it's so important for them to socialize with other dogs. The dogs that don't spend time with other puppies are the ones that end up being aggressive with other dogs later in life because they don't learn the social cues."

It may be just the beginning. Hoskins said he expects the park to be a prime destination for dog lovers citywide.

"I think Salem needs two or three of these," Hoskins said.

"There's a real community down there," he added. "People make friends through their dogs. It's a great way for people to meet each other and compare notes and who their vet is and where there's a good place to get dog toys or dog food."

To donate

* E-mail salemspace@hotmail.com.

* Mail a check made out to SPACE to P.O. Box 8875, Salem, MA 01970.

* Drop off a donation at All Creatures Veterinary Hospital, 20 Commercial St., Salem.