Campus dog park to open in honor of Bob Rosenthal

The late Bob Rosenthal served Hanover College’s community as a member of the faculty for nearly 50 years. He was also a devoted advocate for animals and local volunteer.

In honor of Rosenthal’s well-known love of pets, the Dr. Robert J. Rosenthal Dog Park will open on campus later this fall. Access to the park, also known as Dr. Bob’s Dog Park, will be available, free of charge, to all members of the College community, including students, employees and alumni.

Located adjacent to Greenwood Suites and near the Panther Athletic Complex, the half-acre plot features separate large- and small-dog sections. Each enclosed area includes a concrete-padded entrance, park benches, hydrant and animal-waste receptacles.

Dr. Bob’s Dog Park was established through the generosity of his wife, Vicki Jenkins. A grand opening and dedication ceremony will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 3.

Rosenthal, professor emeritus of philosophy, taught at Hanover from 1967-2014. An advocate for animals in need, he volunteered at the Jefferson County Animal Shelter for 10 years and, through time, welcomed 18 dogs and nine cats into his rural home. He died Feb. 26, 2021.

Registration, including submission of up-to-date vaccination records, is required for access to the park.

Dr. Bob’s Dog Park Animal Registration Form

Dr. Bob’s Dog Park is part of Hanover’s ongoing efforts to be regarded as a pet-friendly campus.

Students are increasingly interested in having their pets on campus. Animals that fit in small cages – such as birds, lizards, gerbils and rabbits – are currently allowed in any campus building. Larger animals, such as dogs, cats, ferrets and chinchillas, are eligible to live in Wiley Hall. Eligibility will be extended to Katharine Parker Hall in Fall 2023.

Emotional support animals and service animals are always welcome.