Dogs in the City of Winkler will soon have a designated spot to run and play, as council recently approved the construction for the dog park.

After months of fundraising, the Winkler Dog Park Committee has raised approximately $11,000, which will cover the cost of four foot high enclosed fencing. In the future the committee said it would like to purchase benches and trees for the park, but are waiting for more funding.

Committee member Martha Olfert said this process has been fulfilling and she is thankful for public support.

"It's very gratifying. We've worked hard, and we spent a lot of time [on] this project, and it's gratifying to be recognized and have the go-ahead," said Olfert.

Meanwhile, council has proposed that all future dog licensing fees in Winkler be directed toward the park. Mayor Martin Harder explains why he made this suggestion.

"I think what this [committee] has done is they have elevated the expectations of dog owners in this community, and I believe they have also elevated the responsibility of dog owners in this community... that's why I made the recommendation that the funding go to the dog park," said Harder.

The dog park will be located on a parcel of land north of Provincial Highway 14 offered by City Council earlier this year.

A fundraising barbecue last weekend raised nearly $2,000. Pictured: Katherine Murphy with her dog Tukka