Dog Parks and Starting One in your Community

Dog Parks are becoming more and more popular. They are not only fun for our dogs but , are also a great place for humans to interact. They provide a place for dogs to run off leash and socialize with other dogs, as well as allowing for owners to socialize at the same time.

Unfortunately not all communities have Dog Parks available for our canine friends. If your community does not have a Dog Park available to you here are some guidelines on getting a park started.

First off do some research.

Is anyone else developing a Dog Park in your area.

Find out about rules and regulations that pertain to your community.

Can local parks or recreation departments be of any help.

Talk to people in your community and get some feedback about opening a park in your area.

When planning park keep in mind traffic patterns, neighborhoods, noise, etc

Set up a liaison with city, neighborhood, and dog owners

Assign someone to monitor use

Set up times that park will be available for use.

Rules for using the Dog Park

Present you Community with the benefits of having a Dog Park.

Dogs can socialize and exercise in a safe environment.

Helps to promote responsible pet ownership

Will help to promote public health and safety

Provides a meeting place for dog owners to socialize.

Provides access for people with disabilities to exercise their pets.

Dog Park should include:

At least 1 acre or more of ground and be surrounded with a 4?to 6?fence.

The entry should be gated

Regular maintenance should be performed (cut grass, waste clean up, etc.)

Wheelchair access

Plenty of shade and water

A separate parking area

Station to dispose of waste

Benches, tables, trash cans, etc

Complete set of rules for using the Dog Park

With this general guideline you will be well on you way to developing a Dog Park in your area. We hope to see your Dog Park up and running soon.

Article written by Kevin Gawricki