DAPHNE — The City of Daphne Recreation Department on Saturday held the grand opening of the Daphne Dog Park.

Several residents showed up with and without dogs.

At one time Saturday morning, about 55 dogs were in the park; about 30 dogs were spotted Saturday afternoon, according to Councilman August Palumbo.

“I was amazed, delighted and so proud that Daphne had done that,” Ron Allen said of the area, which caters to canines that cannot roam freely in other parts of the city governed by a leash law.

The park is located at the Al Trione Sports Complex on Whispering Pines Road.

“It’s a wonderful addition to the city,” Mickey Boykin said.

Inside the park, dog toys — including a few hurdles and a tunnel — have been installed. Daphne Utilities provided the equipment, according to recreation Director David McKelroy.

The park also includes a water fountain set up for people and dogs. Owners will have to turn on the water for dogs because it is not free-flowing.