Melksham dog park offers safe and secure off-lead walks

A secure and welcoming dog walking park has been created in Melksham, inspired by the experiences of its owners with a nervous rescue dog.

Jade Walker and Chris Hobbs launched ‘Vinny’s Getaway after their first dog, Vinny, struggled around other dogs after being attacked several times. They said this made everyday walks stressful, with constant vigilance needed and walks often cut short.

“We understood all too well the stress of constantly checking field gates for other dogs and planning exit routes,” they said. “It took the joy out of countryside walks – which isn’t what you imagine when you get a dog.”

The couple said the lack of suitable private spaces for exercising and training led them to develop their own secure site, designed to allow dogs and owners to relax and enjoy time outdoors without interruption.

The name of the park was chosen in memory of their dog, using his Kennel Club registration name, “Vinny’s Getaway”.

The site now includes two enclosed fields available for exclusive hourly hire, booked online. Access is controlled by gate codes issued shortly before each session, allowing visitors sole use of the space.

One field, known as The Practice Paddock, covers one acre and is aimed at training activities such as recall, with features including a hoopers course, weave poles and a willow arch. The larger seven-acre field offers open space alongside beginner agility equipment, a scent maze, shelter and seating areas.

Jade and Chris said the facilities are designed to suit dogs of different abilities, with most equipment built using recycled materials and set at safe heights. They have also worked with local trainers to provide guidance for visitors.

“With so much of the countryside feeling like it’s being lost to property development, there’s continual reduction in the number of ‘designated’ dog walking areas,” they said. “With the ongoing loss of safe spaces in which to walk dogs off lead, we hope that our fenced areas provide peace of mind to dog owners and enrichment and quality of life to the dogs.”

The business supports local organisations, offering free sessions to rescue charities and donating visits for fundraising events. The site has also been used by Wiltshire Police dog handlers and featured in filming for the Channel 4 programme “Hobby Man”.

For more details, visit their Facebook page or email Vinnysgetaway@hotmail.com