They don't call them the "dog days of summer" for nothing.

This August will mark the opening of South Bend's first city-sponsored dog park on the grounds at Rum Village.

Earlier this week, a $120,000 contract for the work was awarded. The proceeds come from the sale of a park bond.

The new dog park should be finished within 60 days.

"We'll see about a 2-acre dog park divided up into three different areas, so we'll have an area for small dogs, an area for large dogs and an area that can be for private parties, so if you want to celebrate your dog's birthday party or otherwise, we'll have that area, too," Director of Venues, Parks and Arts Aaron Perri said.

There will be no charge to use the park.

Due to cost constraints, plans to build some pavilions in the dog park were put on hold for now. They will be added later as additional funding becomes available.