Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park

In January 2013, Foundation volunteers began construction on the Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park, a 2.5-acre site located in the city’s northwest open space. The dog park is named after beloved local veterinarian Dr. Joe Cortese, a passionate and proactive leader of veterinary medicine who made a lasting impact on all he encountered. Dr. Cortese's genuine caring for people and animals continues to live on in the first dedicated dog park in San Juan Capistrano.

A major contribution from the Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort, along with generous donations from the community, enabled Foundation volunteers to turn this space into another usable and accessible area in San Juan Capistrano's open space. The park features play areas for large and small dogs, as well as picnic tables, benches and an access ramp for the disabled. Now that its work is complete, the Foundation will be donating all the improvements to the city.

In August 2013, the City of San Juan Capistrano celebrated the grand opening of the Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park. The park is now open for daily use.