The Shelter on the big dog side was dedicated to Darin and Kerry O'Shields and their dog Jameson. The O'Shields have been instrumental to the many improvements in the park, most notably in funding water installation this summer. During the 2nd annual anniversary we raised $2445! Thank you all. We could not have done it without you. 100% of this money will be used for park enhancements. Here is a little history on the dedication of the pavilion on the big dog side.  Please see more about their story and dedication to the park here. 

 

Darin “Big O” O’Shields and Kerry “Kerry O" O'Shields are the property and pets of Jameson… the archenemy of the Spotsy Dog Park. Everyone knows Jameson as being the very playful, very friendly troublemaker. Now let me introduce you to Darin and Kerry. 

 

Big O is a retired law enforcement officer and presently owns an independent motorcycle shop in the area. Kerry O is a registered nurse and workers comp case manager.

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Big O and Kerry are active in what they refer to as the area’s “thug biker type family members”… a group of like minded, charitable motorcycle enthusiasts that do charitable works in our community. One activity in particular is their Thursday night Big O Charity Bike Night held at Amy's Cafe downtown Fredericksburg. Last year, they raised over $40,000 for local charities. Over $9,000 of that fundraising money went to the Spotsy Dog Park to improve area beautification and installation of the water system.

 

Working with our parks Board of Directors, the County Board of Supervisors, Matt Hayden of Professional Plumbing Solutions, and our thug biker type family, our water system was planned, permitted, paid for and installed in record time, ensuring our furry family members would have hydration while playing. Our thug biker type family members paid for the water, but not the monthly cost of maintaining the water bill, so Big O and Kerry continue to raise money to support our Park. That said, they encourage everyone who enjoys what the park has to offer to donate money and supplies and volunteer when then they can.

 

Additionally, when you see a Dog’s “pet" at the park, usually wearing Harley Davidson attire, be sure to thank them for their support. Big O says none of his and Kerry’s work would be possible without their continued support… and Jameson needs a place to terrorize his friends.

 

So when you sit under this pavilion remember how much work went into not only getting this pavilion, but also the luxury of having clean running water for you pup to drink while playing at the park.