Shell be Right for Dogs in Oriental Bay

If a dog works up a thirst while out promenading on Oriental Parade then relief is now at hand - in the shape of a large scallop shell.

The bronze shell, installed recently near the main steps down to the main Oriental Bay beach, has been designed as a drinking fountain for canines following demand from dog owners.

The Council's Public Space Design Manager, Geoffrey Snedden, says Council Urban Designer Peter Kundycki drew up the design and managed the $2000 installation of the fountain after the Council received a letter from local resident Pauline McNeil.

"Pauline walks her wire-haired jack russell terrier, Muffin, along the Parade nearly every day," says Geoffrey. "She and other dog owners, especially during the warmer months, say their dogs are often in need of a good drink towards the end of a good walk."

The scallop shell, cast by top bronze art specialist Jonathan Campbell at his Lower Hutt foundry, is supplied with water from the adjacent bronze ‘kina' that swimmers use to wash their feet of sand.

Geoffrey says the shell is perfect for dogs both large and small. "Even Paris Hilton's tiny dog would even be able to reach in for a drink if we had the good fortune to welcome Paris on a visit to our fair city."