On the west side of the city, this is the only official off-leash dog park between Jericho Beach, Kits Beach, and King Edward, which might explain why Valdez Park is so busy with dogs all the time. 

As such, it Serves Its Purpose, which is a continuing theme of some of these lesser parks in Vancouver’s arsenal. But the off-leash area comprises the entire park (unlike most parks, where it would only occupy a section), meaning it’s not really hospitable to non-dog owners hoping for a quiet walk or picnic. And the lack of amenities or interesting design elements also limit its versatility. 

But at the end of the day, dogs need parks too.