003. Dog Parks
Description
This article is from the rec.pets.dogs: Assorted Topics, posted to rec.pets.dogs newsgroup. Maintained by Cindy Tittle Moore with numerous contributions by others.
003. Dog Parks
This is a summary of information about dog parks that has been gleaned from the helpful responses of several netters. Compiled by Susan Kennedy.
It seems that most of the responses came from people who are on the West coast, so maybe the concept of a dog park will drift across the country, as so many California things do.
Several kinds of dog parks were described. The first is a wilderness area or beach that allows dogs to be off leash. This kind probably allows your dog to exercise, but is no guarantee that he will find other dogs to romp with or that his safety is assured. The second kind is a smaller area, probably with a fence, where the grass is probably mowed. This area is typically in a city park, and is set aside specifically for dogs. A third kind is an area that does not officially allow dogs, but that police chose not to enforce the leash laws. One dog park was described as a part-time one; hours and days were limited. Still another park is one set aside specifically to train hunting dogs. This one is funded by hunting license fees. But no one complains if non-hunting dogs are exercised there.
It was mentioned that typically more upscale cities were likely to have official dog parks.
In most cases, the expenses associated with the dog park are paid from the coffers that pay for all other park expenses. One case required a permit, and a fee of $25 per year.
One officially sanctioned park was described as a 200' by 600' area, enclosed by a 4 ft. chain link fence.
Dog owners are asked to clean up after their pets; in some cases, plastic bags and trash cans are provided for this. It is unclear how careful dog owners actually are about this, or how important it is. It would seem difficult to observe your dog (especially if you had multiple ones) at all times, especially if the landscape prevented a clear view. On the other hand, 20 dogs in one day can generate a lot of output! If it's a concern, you can always make sure your pet has eliminated before going into the park.
The dog parks are not policed in any way, other than peer pressure from other dog owners. No attempts are made to screen dogs before using the parks for shots, diseases, fleas, etc. Fighting did not seem to be a problem. It was mentioned that if a new dog arrives and there appears to be the possibility of a fight, courtesy suggests that the new dog wait outside until the other dog has left. Another courtesy rule is that the owner of the agressive dog should take him out if play gets too rough. Verbal control is the most important tool for a dog owner. As might be expected, most dogs at dog parks are medium or larger dogs.
Surprisingly, liability did not seem to be a concern for owners who frequent dog parks. But the presence of children (particularly if not accompanied by a parent) should be a concern for everyone, since an injury to the child could happen even in play.
Several people suggested that a petition would be a good method to get a sanctioned dog park. One mentioned using as one of the reasons the importance of socializing dogs with other dogs so that they have better manners (towards people), but proving this is a bit difficult. A fee tacked on to the pet license was suggested, or an admission fee.
Several people have mentioned a situation that involved taking their friendly, well-behaved dogs to unofficial dog parks, but having a problem when the dog approaches another dog who is fearful of him. The friendly dog chases the fearful dog, and the owner of the fearful dog is upset. The owner of the fearful dog then calls the police. And because dogs are not officially allowed off leash, there may be a penalty for this.
For reference:
York and Goodavage, _The Dog Lover's Companion - The Inside Scoop on Where to Take Your Dog in the Bay Area and Beyond_. Foghorn press (415) 241-9550
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