BELFAST – Those looking for a satisfying present for the dog-lover in their lives could consider giving a piece of the shelter being built at the Belfast Dog Park.

For just $12 per square foot, dog lovers can purchase a portion of the 12-foot-by-12-foot shelter. Viking Inc. donated the lumber for the project, with labor donated by Jim Shaver of Belfast. Originally, Friends of Belfast Parks planned to add the shelter next year, but Shaver’s and Viking’s donations accelerated the project.

“We’re seeing people at the dog park during every daylight hour, no matter what the weather, but having the shelter will mean they don’t need to put up with rain running down their necks the entire time their pups are playing,” said Carol Good, Friends of Belfast Parks president. “We are extremely grateful to Jim [Shaver] and to David Flanagan [co-owner of Viking].”

Those interested can visit the dog park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 28 or 29, and make a tax-deductible contribution to a volunteer there. They also may mail a check to FOBP Dog Park Fund, P.O. Box 947, Belfast 04915. Or visit friendsofbelfastparks.org, click on Belfast Dog Park, and make donations by credit card via PayPal. A dog park user’s guide can also be downloaded from the Web site.

Friends of Belfast Parks continues to accept larger gifts to the park, as well as contributions to the shelter.

“The dog park subcommittee borrowed money to complete the park on schedule last summer and continues to develop it,” said Good, “and so fund-raising is an ongoing need.”