Local Dog Parks: Locations and Tips

Julie BrodieNo CommentsLocal Events

Get out and play! It’s natural for a dog to want to socialize and play with other dogs, and a dog park is the perfect setting for your dog to be able to run free without having to worry about getting into trouble. A dog park or dog run is a place where dogs can get exercise, play with other dogs, or just rest in a comfortable and controlled setting.

Some dog parks cater to large dogs, while others are specifically for smaller dogs. There are some parks that are free and open to the public, while other parks are privately maintained and have a fee. Before you visit a local dog park, you should visit BringFido.com to read all about it.

Dog Park Etiquette:

Never leave your dog unattended and always keep your attention on your dog.
Phone calls, emails, and iPhone games or apps should be kept to a minimum so your focus can always remain on your dog.
Always clean up after your dog. Most parks have poopbags or scoopers, so use them. This is a primary reason that dog parks get complaints, so pay attention and pick up the poop.
If you see trash, debris, or anything else that’s out of place, pick it up or put it back so none of the dogs get injured.
Make sure your dog is current on her shots and has a valid license.
Don’t bring dogs younger than 4 months to a dog park. They won’t have had all the necessary inoculations that allow them to play safely with other animals.
Don’t bring a female dog in season if not spayed.
Before coming to the dog park, as your veterinarian if your dog is healthy enough to play.
Spayed/neutered animals are recommended.
Don’t bring more than two or maybe three dogs. It subjects parks to overuse, and if they’re not your dogs, you may not have full control over them. It’s hard enough for many people to watch one dog!
Keep your dog on-leash until you get to the off-leash area. This is not just respectful to other park users, it’s much safer for your dog.
Close all doors to the dog park or dog run after entering or exiting.
If your dog becomes unruly or plays rough, leash him and leave immediately.
If you must bring children to a dog park, supervise them closely.
Don’t smoke or eat while at the dog park. Cigarette butts and food wrappers are tempting treats to dogs, but bad for them.
Don’t scold or touch someone else’s dog. You wouldn’t want them to do that to your dog.
If it seems like a group of dogs are bullying another dog, make sure your dog isn’t participating and encourage other owners to do the same.
Be friendly with other dog owners. It’s more enjoyable if everyone is nice to each other.
Always observe all of the rules posted at your local dog park. Each town has its own set of regulations: please follow them.