Dog owners in east London now have a new spot to unleash their furry friends.
A new off-leash dog park opened at 941 Commissioners Rd. E on Thursday. The fenced-in area that allows dogs to run freely is a tribute to Caesar, a London police canine killed in the line of duty more than 40 years ago.
The black Labrador's human partner, retired Constable Robert Merrimen Sr., was on hand for the dedication ceremony.
"Caesar was not only my partner, he was a member of my family," says Merrimen. "He died in the line of duty so I think this tribute is fantastic. He would have loved to be here. He was a sociable dog. He liked to be with other dogs and people, and to run free."
While trying to arrest an armed and dangerous suspect during a violent domestic dispute on February 14, 1974, Caesar was shot and killed.
"He (Caesar) was instrumental in saving my life and the lives of other police officers that were there that day," says Merrimen. "With him being deployed we were able to apprehend the suspect."
The city used recycled materials including wood chips from ash trees that had to be cut down to construct the new dog park.
Caesar's dog park is the fourth off-leash dog park to be established in London. A fifth one is expected to open in November on Dundas St. between Waterloo St. and Colborne St.