TIPP CITY — It may not be heaven, but when the gates to the newest Miami Valley dog park swing open that may be where its canine visitors think they are heading.

The 1.85-acre fenced Tipp City Dog Park, built following resident requests, is quietly welcoming users with in Kyle Park on South First Street. The $28,000 park was built with donations, a state grant and city park funds.

The American Kennel Club's Web site notes a growing number of dog parks as cities become more crowded and leash laws more restrictive. The club even advises how start a dog park at www.akc.org.

Martin English, a Tipp City veterinarian, said daily exercise is a must for dogs to remain healthy. He said large breed dogs require more than a back yard and, for all dogs, a fenced park allows for exercise in a safe environment.

"Some owners let their dogs run loose, either in their neighborhoods or at one of the public parks. The risks involved include being hit by a car or running away and not returning. Veterinarians and animal shelters see those all of the time," English said.

In 2002, the Scout Burnell-Garbrecht Dog Park at Fairgrounds Recreation Center Park in Xenia opened. Chrisbell Bendar, Greene County Parks director, said the free park dog park is heavily used. Last year, 10,000 people and 5,000 dogs attended end-of-summer activities at the county pool.

"I think the reason they (dog parks) are so popular is folks get the opportunity to exercise and socialize their dogs as well as socialize with other canine owners," Bendar said.

Teresa McCarthy of the Dayton Dog Training Club of Moraine said, "(A dog park) is a great place to exercise and socialize your dog. You just have to be aware. Not all dogs get along."

Sam and Renie Wahl, ages 9 and one, enjoyed a visit to Tipp City's dog park with their owner, Jackie Wahl, who helped raise funds. Wahl said dog parks are a blessing when you have a small backyard.

"I can only encourage people to make use of the facility. It was meant to be," she said.

A drinking and doggie water fountain will be installed at the Tipp City park this spring. A second phase, if another $30,000 can be raised, calls for a fence to divide the park for large and small dog areas plus a shelter and picnic tables (outside the fenced area.)