Forever Wild Dog Park Opens Phase 1 Off-Leash Area, Pavilion in Dothan

Phase 1 of the Forever Wild Dog Park in Dothan opened to the public on January 24, 2026, offering a primary off-leash dog park area and a pavilion as the first step of a multi-phase buildout. The soft opening expands options for pet recreation on the side of town opposite Eastgate Park and begins a two-stage rollout that city officials say will improve access to quality pet amenities citywide.

City of Dothan Leisure Services announced the soft opening and repeated Director of Leisure Services Billy Powell’s statement: “We are excited to provide additional opportunities to residents and visitors of Dothan. The Forever Wild Dog Park expands access to high-quality recreational amenities for pets across the city.” Commissioner Gantt Pierce, who advocated for the project in his district, added, “This park is located in my district and is a project I shared with residents as something I hoped we could make happen. Seeing Phase 1 completed is exciting, and I look forward to Phase 2 being finished in the near future.”

Phase 1 delivers the park’s main dog park section - described in coverage as the primary dog park area or off-leash area - and a pavilion for visitors. City materials say the new site “complements the existing dog park at Eastgate Park,” while other local coverage described Forever Wild as modeled after Eastgate Park’s dog park. The City of Dothan recognized Andy Love, General Services Director, and Weston Glover, General Services Project Manager, “for their leadership in completing Phase 1 on schedule and to the highest standards.”

Phase 2 will add restrooms and unspecified additional amenities. City officials say work on Phase 2 will begin soon and that a formal grand opening will be scheduled once those elements are in place. No firm dates or a detailed amenity list for Phase 2 were released at the soft opening announcement.

For practical information, park rules, hours and more are available through the City of Dothan Leisure Services website, and Leisure Services can be reached by phone at 334-615-3700. The city also promoted the opening on social media, with an Instagram post announcing the park “officially opens TOMORROW, Saturday, January 24, 2026!” Photos released by Dothan Leisure Services accompany the rollout.

Forever Wild’s opening means easier access to off-leash space for residents on Dothan’s opposite side from Eastgate Park and sets expectations for more visitor amenities once Phase 2 is built. Those seeking details on the restroom timeline, a full amenities list or plans for a grand opening can contact Dothan Leisure Services or city project staff for updates.