Asheville Parks & Recreation announced on Apr. 13 the launch of Ruff ‘n’ Roll, a new program designed to offer shared creative experiences for dogs and their owners at Riverbend Park. The events will take place on April 22 and May 28 from 5-7pm, aiming to transform regular dog park visits into interactive activities for both pets and people.
The initiative highlights the city’s ongoing efforts to bring residents together through innovative recreation programs. According to Program Leader Kiley Pritchard, “One of my favorite parts of working with Rec ‘n’ Roll in public parks is getting to meet dogs and their companions. We always keep dog treats in the van, so we’re ready to say hi, learn the dogs’ names, and just have those quick interactions. Over time, we even start to recognize some of the same pups and their owners.” Pritchard said that Ruff ‘n’ Roll is intended not only for dogs but also as an opportunity for owners to engage directly with their pets: “While the focus is on the pups, it’s really about creating shared experiences between pets and their people, which isn’t always part of a typical dog park visit.”
The program will be held outside the temporary dog park at Riverbend Park on Bleachery Boulevard. Activities include paw print stamping and “painting with your pup,” along with giveaways such as bandanas, collapsible water bowls, clip-on poop bag dispensers, and The Hop’s Happy Tails Doggie Ice Cream. Participation is free.
Pritchard said she looks forward most to seeing these moments firsthand: “Just watching happy pups engage with their owners and seeing those moments turn into something memorable.” Temporary off-leash parks are available at Aston Park (300 Hilliard Ave.) near the gazebo as well as Riverbend Park while permanent facilities recover from storm damage.
City regulations require all pet owners in Asheville to keep dogs leashed unless inside fenced areas at designated parks; all dogs over six months must have a city license displayed alongside an updated rabies tag. License fees begin at $10 annually; violations start at $50 fines.
Asheville’s City Hall serves as its administrative hub according to the official website. The city uses its City Plans initiative for long-term community engagement according to its official website. Asheville operates under a council-manager government structure with elected officials setting policy while a city manager handles operations according to information provided by the official website. Departments like Public Works coordinate services across municipal functions as noted by city sources.
Ruff ‘n’ Roll joins hundreds of other APR programs offered weekly throughout Asheville parks. Residents can find more details online or pick up printed guides at community centers.
