Web Mistress Note: A kind reader emailed us with the following information.

"Thanks to Trudy Ports, a Lake County volunteer, an off-leash, totally supervised dog park was opened September, 2003 near Okahumka, Florida, just south of Leesburg, south of County Hwy 48, off Hwy 27. The road to it, University Avenue, is just north of Spanish Village. The park is located at 5336 University Avenue.

"Dog [guardians] must present proof of shots at their first visit and of course each human is responsible for cleaning up after their pet and keeping their pet under control. It is a marvelous social atmosphere for both pets and people.

"The park is divided for large and small dogs and aggressive dogs are not permitted. There is a high degree of safety involved and fresh water is brought in by the volunteers. We are hoping the success of the park leads to a bigger, better location. It is currently funded by donations from the patrons."

Note of 02-27-06: Additional information has revealed this park also has 313-acres of land, a 1.3-mile river trail, a Xeriscape garden, which is a water-conserving method of landscaping that works well in Florida's climate, a butterfly garden and a nature trail and center. The dog park is open seven days a week, from dawn to dusk. It also offers canopies for shade, bench seating, and potty bags. Friends of the Park volunteers help Animal Services and Lake County Parks and Recreation Department monitor the park. For information about Friends of the Park, call 352-408-7364.

Note of 01-03-05: Great news! As reported by a kind reader, this park is now open dawn to dusk, unattended.

Note of 08-21-05: A kind reader tells us she recently took her dogs to this park. She said it's a really nice place that's open and out of the way. She discovered a river hiking trail outside the park and said she'd definitely return to the P.E.A.R. park.

NOTE: We can't visit every area on a regular basis, so if you have information about any dog parks or beaches, or any other animal recreation facilities, in the Leesburg area, please contact FloridaPets.net.