There’s a New Neighbourhood Stop for Paris Dogs, Thanks to Innovative Idea


There’s a New Neighbourhood Stop for Paris Dogs, Thanks to Innovative Idea


By Deron Hamel

Kim Stremler meets lots of dogs and their owners walking through her Paris, Ontario neighbourhood every day and she has come up with an idea to make their journeys more enjoyable.

During their walks, the dogs sometimes get thirsty or want a treat. Sometimes they need to relieve themselves. And sometimes they need to take a break.

Noticing this, Kim decided she wanted a “dog stop” in front of her home to provide the amenities the pooches and their human friends need during their strolls.

The dog stop also provides Kim’s home with a more welcoming atmosphere and, of course, she enjoys that dogs and their owners stop by to use the service she provides.

The dog stop includes a cupboard shaped like a house that was built by a community member to store dog treats. There’s also a water bowl for thirsty pups as well as a spot to rest. Kim keeps the area stocked with baggies so owners can clean up after their dogs.

Not surprisingly, the dog stop is getting lots of use, Kim says, adding she needs to refill the bowl with fresh, cold water at least once a day.

Two neighbourhood dogs — one named Fido and a golden retriever named Bonnie — use the dog stop almost every day, Kim says. Their owners are also pleased Kim is helping make dog-walking more enjoyable.

“They really like it,” she says.

And Kim says she likes having lots of dogs drop by to use the dog stop. She says she’s always had an affection for dogs, so providing a dog-friendly space at the front of her home makes her feel like she’s making a difference.

The dog stop also provides Kim’s home with a more welcoming atmosphere and, of course, she enjoys that dogs and their owners stop by to use the service she provides.

Having a dog stop has another perk: Kim gets to meet lots of dogs and give them treats, which the dogs always graciously accept.

“They’re always gentle,” she says.

Be A Newsmaker!

What If We All Took a Person-Centred, Strengths-Based Approach to Life?

As Community Living Brant celebrates 70 years in community, we turn our attention to the people who matter the most: Community Members. We are reaching out to people, like you, who are intentionally paying attention to the gifts and strengths in our midst to share stories about the contribution they make to our lives. We’d love it if you take a few minutes to share your answers to these questions.

Join our mailing list to to receive a bi-weekly newsletter containing invitations and media related to Community Living Brant.