New Dog Park Opens in Oakdale CA

What started as an idea during the Covid pandemic – became a reality four persistent years later.

Located on South Maag Avenue, just north of Oakdale Junior High School, Rudy’s Bark Park was officially opened on Friday, May 17, 2024.

Park co-founder Jennifer Stasio was first inspired to open a second dog park in Oakdale when taking a walk during the Covid pandemic in 2020. Tired of the cooped-up feeling of isolation and an overwhelming desire to enjoy some fresh air, Jennifer took her dog Jack for a much-needed walk. This very walk inspired Jennifer into action, starting with recruiting her work colleague and friend, Michelle Thomasser. Together they mobilized Jennifer’s vision into action and Rudy’s Bark Park now sits on the very location just four years ago, Jennifer was walking her dog.

Four Years in the Making

The park co-founders enlisted the help of the Central Valley Association of Realtors (CVAR) and the City of Oakdale to bring their vision to reality.

Per their fundraising page: “As Real Estate professionals, we are called upon to help our clients locate and purchase homes in desirable neighborhoods.”

As realtors and members of CVAR, Jennifer and Michelle are intimately aware of the quality of life element that comes into homebuyers decisions to make a purchase. Per their website, desireable neighborhoods are not the only reason to purchase a home. “Also on most purchasers list of ‘wants’ is the proximity to schools, parks, churches, and local businesses they can frequent. A dog park is a public space where friendships can be built, not just between dogs, but their owners too. They also create a wonderful environment for visitors and residents to work, live and play.”

Putting the FUN in FUNdraising

Since the conception of a dog park for Oakdale’s East side of town – it’s co-founders, CVAR, and the City of Oakdale underwent a capital campaign that would last nearly four years.

Jennifer and Michelle spearheaded numerous events from the two Barktoberfests, (parade from Dorado Park to Last Call Brewing Co who donated a portion of their sales from the events), to the “Buy A Brick” program driven by the CVAR, to raise revenue necessary to build and maintain Rudy’s Bark Park.

Finally, if you happen to visit the park, there are some really COOL benches to relax. These benches were donated by citizens and organizations in town, and there are still a few available! Memorialize your family, or a beloved pet, or promote your business with a park bench.

Rudy’s Bark Park Naming

Top Dog donors, Karen and Randy Basi, were awarded the distinction of naming the new dog park. They chose to name it in honor of their golden retriever Rudy.

Groundbreaking

Photo Credit Jo Harris

Park construction commenced on August of 2023 and was completed in April 2024. To fwatch the construction of the dog park unfold, visit Rudy’s Bark Park Facebook page.

Come By and Check it Out

If you are a dog owner and enjoy the company of like-minded individuals, be sure to stop by and pay the park a visit with your four legged friend.

Before you do, we recommend you visit our article about Dog Park Decorum. This useful piece includes a guide for ensuring the best experience for both dogs and their owners. 

Get Involved

Any individual or business interested in making additional contributions to Rudy’s Bark Park may do so by calling or e-mailing Jennifer Stasio at [email protected] or 408-444-1131 or Michelle Thomasser at [email protected] or 209-914-6166.