Pet Play: The Ins and Outs of Dog Parks

The morning is just beginning! The sun is bright, birds are chirping and the wind is calm. It’s the perfect weather to take our four-legged buddy to the dog park. There’s no better place for our pups to get exercise, socialize with other doggies and get all their zoomies out, well, for at least a few hours, anyway. But before you leash your lovely lab, prepare yourself and your furry friend with some tips to make the dog park visit a success.

Dog parks, often called bark parks or canine parks, are places where dogs and their owners can go for some off-leash play-and-stay fun. In some parks, dogs may be required to wear a leash to obey local laws, but for most places, our canine cohorts can run themselves ragged at their leisure.

Dog parks are a small section of land that is fenced off within a city park or community. The entrance usually has a double gate to keep the pups from getting out while the owners can remove their dog’s leash. Once inside, the fun begins. Some dog parks have two separate areas, one for big dogs and another for smaller dogs. You and your pup might also take advantage of water fountains for dogs and people. Others have swimming areas or small pools set aside exclusively for canines. Lights, shaded benches, pet obstacles and dog-washing stations may be other attractions. Some dog parks even have canine memorials to pay homage to the pets that have passed.
Know before you go. Dog parks are like beauty salons. Some allow you to walk in while others require a reservation. Check online for hours, rules and regulations before heading to the dog park.

Dog park merriment comes with responsibility, too. Rules of the park are generally found on a sign or structure near the entrance to keep puppies and people safe. Check your own pooch’s park’s policies, but here are a few standard guidelines.

A fundamental rule of dog parking: clean up after your pet. Plastic bags and garbage cans are usually provided for owners to clean up after their Rover. If people don’t keep parks clean, they run the risk of being closed down. Take a towel, water and poop bags just in case.

Be mindful of your pet. Never leave him or her unattended and don’t be distracted by others and your phone. Keep moving in the park. Experts say this is a good way to keep the bark park neutral and relaxed.

Dogs should have a current license and collar. All shots should be up to date for the safety of all the pups. Puppies should be at least four months old and dogs should be spayed or neutered.

Check the rules for children at the park you are using. Children under 13 may not be able to enter or must arrive with an adult. Generally, food or dog snacks are not allowed inside the parks. If your dog displays aggressive behavior, consider staying at home.

It’s okay to talk to other dog owners. Pets are an instant ice breaker! Getting fresh insight on other breeds and seeing how other owners learn with their dogs is insightful. Who knows? Puppy may find a buddy they can see on a regular basis.

Some afternoon freedom at a dog park offers helpful benefits to your precious pooch. They can learn and practice social skills, get the mental stimulation they need and it’s a sure-fire way to absolutely exhaust an energetic dog!

Of course, with any visit to the dog park, there can be negatives too. It can be dangerous at times. Fights between dogs and aggressive behavior may be a definite downer. Dogs can sometimes pick up bad habits such as aggression, fear or rough play and some dogs may begin to ignore commands. Illnesses can be passed from dog to dog if they are not properly vaccinated, and if the park is smaller or more concentrated it can be easier for the soil to become contaminated.

While there are pros and cons to consider, most dogs and their owners find a great time can be had by all. To find a dog park near you, ask other dog owners. What parks do they like, and where have they experienced successful puppy play days? Also, check neighborhood websites or rescue facilities to see what parks might be right for you and to keep Tucker tuckered-out.

Dog parks can be a perfect place for bonding with your dog and treating them to a break from his or her regular way of life. Obeying park rules is key to success, but simple etiquette can make for a great day at the dog park for everyone!

Sources: pawrade.com, vetster.com and hillspet.com.