Family housing opens new dog park Published April 30, 2013 By Jonathan Rejent Nucleus staff writer KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Kirtland's residents have spoken, and base housing has responded to their requests with a new dog park. Kirtland Family Housing sent a survey to the more than 1000 homes at Kirtland asking residents what amenities could be added to increase the quality of living on base, according to Paul Tourne, Kirtland Family Housing community director. The results of the survey determined that above all, residents wanted a recreation area for their dogs. "State law and Kirtland's rules and regulations all reflect that if dogs are out, they have to be on a leash. (The residents) needed a place to exercise their dogs," Tourne said. Kirtland Family Housing looked at dog parks in the city and researched online to determine how to go about creating the ideal dog park for residents. The park, which opened in April, is divided into two areas -- one for larger dogs and one for smaller dogs. Each section contains a variety of obstacles for the animals. The park is complete with benches to sit and relax while your dogs explore the area. Tourne said that by next month, the benches will be covered with shade structures, similar to those at the outdoor pool. Once they are installed, Kirtland Family Housing will send the word out to residents, marking the official opening of the park; however, Tourne said people are welcome to visit the park now. The park is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. It is across from the base tennis courts on 34th Street, just south of West Sandia Circle. For more information, call Kirtland Family Housing at 232-2049.