HAPPY TAILS

Houston-area dog park damaged by hurricane reopens

HOUSTON—A Houston dog park heavily damaged by Hurricane Harvey has reopened to the delight of some canine owners and their pets.

Johnny Steele Dog Park reopened Monday after months of repairs. The 2-acre city-operated dog park is a $1.6 million facility within one of Buffalo Bayou Park’s lowest areas.

Harvey hit South Texas on Aug. 25, leading to heavy rain that swamped parts of Houston.

Officials say Johnny Steele Dog Park had about 30,000 cubic yards of silt, blamed on Harvey, that had to be removed.

Park officials say design modifications since Harvey should help alleviate future flooding.

The complex also now has separate entrances for big and small dogs, with all animals having access to a pond, where some pets splashed about on Monday.

Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle via AP ■ David Camp watches his dog, Lewis, play in the water Monday at Johnny Steele Dog Park in Houston. The park, which was heavily damaged by Hurricane Harvey, reopened for the first time since the storm.