RALEIGH, N.C. — Since it first opened about two years ago, the Millbrook Dog Park has brought out about a thousand pet owners to the park every week. It's enough of a crowd that some pet owners have to avoid the place during peak hours.

"We used to come every evening non-stop from five to seven," Rhonda Carr said. "We don't come at that time anymore because it's too busy."

For this reason the City of Raleigh is considering adding two more dog parks.

The city has signed off on the concept, but the decision will be made during budget talks.

The cost of a new dog park can range from $20,000 to $50,000.

Of six potential sites, two are considered priorities because they are in areas where homes are close together. These are the Oakwood and Lake Johnson parks.

"I just really enjoy the open areas," Harris Smith said. "I live in an apartment, and it's hard for me to get the dogs out and get the energy out they need to get out."

The Town of Cary also is moving forward with plans to build a dog park that will sit next to the Godbold and Sk8-Cary parks, across from West Cary Middle School.

The proposal includes a chain-link fence, pet stations, dog hydrants, and areas for small and large dogs. Construction will cost around $53,000.

The town plans to charge a fee for use of the park, which may be completed as early as August.

Raleigh does not charge users of the Millbrook Dog Park. The mulch and 100,000 bags used each year to pick up what dogs leave behind are donated.

"It's not just a park for dogs," Rodney Cook said. "It's a park for owners where they can bring their dogs and meet other owners."