In a surprising turn of events, South Carolina has officially banned dogs from all bark parks across the state. The decision, which has left many dog owners barking mad, was announced early this morning by the South Carolina Department of Parks and Recreation.
The new policy, described as ‘revolutionary’ by its supporters, aims to make bark parks more inclusive for other animals. Starting next Monday, cats, birds, and even squirrels are welcome to enjoy the facilities, while dogs will have to look on from outside the fences.
“We’ve noticed a significant lack of diversity in our bark parks,” stated the spokesperson for the department, Sandy Claws. “It’s high time other animals got their chance to enjoy these spaces without the constant barking and chasing.”
Dog owners across the state have expressed their disbelief. “I thought bark parks were for dogs to, you know, bark,” commented a local dog owner, B. Wildered. “Next, they’ll be banning birds from birdhouses!”
In a gesture of compromise, the department has announced plans to establish a series of ‘Whisper Woods’ where dogs can gather quietly. However, this has done little to appease the canine community.