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M.E.Wood |
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Romping
and Running and Wrestling, Oh My! Dog Parks are quickly becoming a suitable past time for dogs and their companions. What Are They? Dog Parks are contained enclosures allowing dog owners to let their dogs off their leashes. Dogs are required, by law, to be on lead when out in the community. Quinte Dog Park in Belleville, Ontario, is three acres and is completely contained by a chain link fence. A small fenced area for small dogs is available but it is seldom used as they choose to run and play with their larger counterparts. Quinte Dog Park is located within a larger park that is used frequently by the public. The dogs are able to run freely with one another without impeding the use of the park by non-dog owners.
Dog owners who frequent Dog Parks seem to agree that the best benefit is the amount of exercise their dogs are able to receive. No amount of walking could equal the intensity of running with other dogs. The old adage ‘Birds of a feather flock together’ could not be more evident then when you see the dogs socializing in one area and the owners mingling in another. It is great for both. Dogs adore the type of companionship that only another dog can give. This is a perfect opportunity for dogs to socialize with other dogs and learn ‘proper’ dog behaviour. Dog owners are not the only ones who think that dog parks are a wonderful idea. Companionless people are able to walk through the park area, not designated leash free, without the threat of an unleashed dog running up to them. In fact, many non-dog owners are known to stop and watch the dog’s frolicking. Use at Your Own Risk As with everything, there can be disadvantages. Most come from uneducated or uncooperative dog owners. Rules and regulations are made for a reason: to protect people and their pets. When the rules are followed, the enjoyment of Dog Parks is ten-fold for everyone involved. See the box on this page for common park rules. Precautions When attending a dog park for the first time it is recommended that you release your dog from its leash. Being on lead can put your dog in an awkward situation and at an unfair advantage when the other dogs come for a sniff. If your dog has never been socialized or had much socializing with other dogs, then visiting the park during a quiet time will let your pet adapt to the environment and a couple of dogs. It can be over whelming for you and your dog, when a crowd of dogs rush over to sniff, but this is a normal occurrence upon entering the park--everyone is greeted. Make sure your dog’s shots are up to date. A vaccination for Kennel Cough is recommended because of the increase in socialization.
Be careful when throwing sticks and balls, as some dogs can become possessive-aggressive running in a group. Try moving to a less populated area of the park if you are throwing toys for your pet. If you notice your dog being mildly aggressive towards another dog; distracting it usually deters escalation to an incident. Call your dog to another area or entice it with a game. How to Get One If you think you might be interested in getting a dog park in your community then the first thing you need to do is research. Visit your City Hall, local Dog Catcher, and Parks and Recreation department. Talk with other dog owners. Jim Moore was integral in the set up of Quinte Dog Park. “We put up petitions at all the vets, pet stores, supermarkets etc.”
It is a big undertaking that demands considerable time. Involving others would make it easier and more attainable. Let Sleeping Dogs Lie Overall, any dog owner will tell you that the benefits out way any disadvantages. Problems arising are decreased by being aware of your dog’s behaviour and dog behaviour in general. Obey the rules and you and your dog will have an enjoyable time playing and making new friends. Oh, I forgot to mention one of the best benefits of taking your dog to exercise in a Dog Park; exhaustion leading to sleeping soundly for hours. Of course, all that fresh air might make you want to have a nap too. ---------------------------------------------------- SIDEBAR #1 Use at Your Own Risk Here are some common rules to keep in mind if you are going to visit a dog park. Be sure to check with each park as rules are established for each Dog Park Community. •Aggressive
dogs are not allowed. If your dog becomes aggressive, leash
it and leave. ---------------------------------------------------- SIDEBAR #2 Searching for Dog Parks? There are 482 Canadian and 577 U.S. dog parks listed at dogparks.com. They also have other useful and interesting material. Here are just a few parks listed there. (You can also check out these Canadian listings.) •Quinte Dog Park - Belleville, ON •Toronto Dogs - Toronto, ON •Canine Friends - Mississauga, ON •Rain City Dogs - Vancouver, BC •Ok Dog Website - Kelowna, BC •Wegmans Good Dog Park - New York, USA •Dog Wood Park - Florida, USA •Offleash Dog Parks - Sydney, Australia (not listed at above mentioned sites) The dog parks incur the expenses of maintenance and improvements. Memberships are available and assist with these costs. Any donations offered would be welcomed and put to good use.
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Benefits
Always,
know where your dog is. It is easy to get distracted conversing
with other owners. Incidences can happen quickly and if you
are at the opposite end of the park it is harder to control
your dog.
Keep
a close watch for property that may be suitable for your dog
park needs. When it comes to site selection Moore recommends
an area that is causing usage problems. The city and Parks
and Recreation Departments may be more supportive.
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