SALEM — Last year, the group that takes care of the city's dog park installed a spigot so owners wouldn't have to lug gallons of water if their pooches got thirsty.
This year, the improvements are taking on a life of their own.
Salem Play Areas for Canine Exercise (SPACE) has a series of upgrades planned, with some already under way — and they're getting a big boost from volunteers and local businesses.
O'Rourke Memorials donated a granite bowl in the shape of a dog bone, as well as a few granite benches engraved with poetry. Aggregate Industries donated crushed stone for paths. And Northeast Nurseries chipped in with edging and other supplies.
Other businesses, too, have stepped up.
SPACE has spent between $6,000 and $7,000 on park improvements, using money raised from the $25 pooch passes that allow owners and their dogs to use the park. But group member Bart Hoskins estimates the park has received close to $35,000 worth of landscaping through the volunteer efforts.
"It's really quite amazing and gratifying," Hoskins said. "A lot of people want to help the park improve and get it looking good."
Crews have also installed a garden around the storm drain to help filter runoff and protect the nearby North River.
Now in its third year, the dog's play area at Leslie's Retreat Park is a place where man's best friend can frolic leash-free. The city has sold about 400 pooch passes this year, and many donations are coming out of the blue.
"People have really stepped up and said, 'How can we help?'" Hoskins said.
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