Is Hays going to the dogs? If a certain grassroots organization can convince the city there's enough kenneled-up demand, a park for canines could be added to the list of amenities this community offers.

We would recommend dog-lovers keeping a leash on their expectations, however. The challenges involved in such a project, while surmountable, are many. Where, for instance, could such a park be located? Is there enough public benefit to justify dedicating municipal resources such as land or maintenance? What risks are involved with dogs running untethered, and who would pay for them? Would fencing surrounding the area need to be driven into the ground to prevent unwanted wildlife from burrowing underneath? Would first-aid kits need to be provided and stocked in case of a biting incident? Who would fill water bowls, disinfect common toys or ensure all extraneous material properly is scooped up?

We are sure there are myriad other questions and issues to address. Fortunately, the group clamoring for a dog park appears willing to tackle them. The Friends for a Hays Dog Park also is raising money and plans to make a presentation to the city commission this fall.

"There are a lot of people that want this," said Kim Perez, a Fort Hays State University professor who's spearheading the effort.

In a recent interview with The Hays Daily News, Perez indicated a dog park would work well adjacent to Kiwanis Park at 17th and Harvest on the east side of town. Currently, the space is used to grow alfalfa for the city's buffalo herd. Perez also said $35,000 would pay for fencing, water and waste stations, and a parking lot. Other items such as shade trees, benches and agility equipment would cost extra. The Friends group already has begun raising money.

A meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Hays Public Library to better organize the group and discuss fundraising plans.

We wish the group well in its efforts to make Hays a dog-friendly city. Other Kansas communities such as Emporia, Hutchinson, Salina and Great Bend already have such parks.

The only cautionary notes we'd offer are local residents who aren't dog people likely won't be convinced any tax dollars should be used for this project, that there will be some kind of continuing costs beyond the initial construction, and that the Friends group should plan for ongoing care and upkeep. A well-groomed presentation will go a long way toward having city commissioners throw a bone to the Friends for a Hays Dog Park.

Editorial by Patrick Lowry

plowry@dailynews.net