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Right at the top of the list of things that Susie enjoys doing is making a trip to the dog park. It is amazing to see how she knows when we are getting close and as soon as she sees the fence with her friends – both canine and human – on the other side, she begins to vocalize and get excited.
We are fortunate in Louisville to have a great system of dog parks run by the Louisville Dog Run Association of which Susie and I are members. For the minimal cost of $30 Susie has access to six dog parks in Louisville, and more are expected to be added in the future. Susie goes primarily to the park in Tom Sawyer State Park.
As with any activity the dog park has its pluses and minuses. Every additional dog and person added to the mix changes the dynamics of a dog park visit and this requires constant vigilance on behalf of the dog’s handler. In this article we will focus on some basic tips for visiting at the dog park.
Here are a baker’s dozen of tips for dog park success:
1. Before visiting the dog park your dog should at least have basic obedience training. The most important skill to be learned is a reliable recall – that your pet will come when called. If a situation arises at the park you need to be able to get your dog to come as soon as possible. Also if you have a new dog, especially a rescue, get to know your dog’s temperament before visiting a dog park – know how your new pet reacts to the presence of other dogs and new people.
2. Flea and tick prevention are also imperative – this protects not only your dog, but all of the dogs at the park. Use a high quality treatment recommended by your vet. Use this year round – even in the winter.
3.Your dog should also be on heartworm and other parasite preventive.
4. Your dog should be up to date on all of her vaccinations – this should also include the Kennel Cough vaccination.
5. You should pay close attention to the external temperature. Remember that your dog has a harder time dealing with the heat than you do. I either do not go to the park when it is hot (especially when it is over 92 degrees F) or limit the length of the visit.
6. Hydration for your pet is crucial. Our dog parks have plenty of fresh water available, but you should carry your own if water is not provided or when traveling.
7. Carry your cellphone with you while at the park and have the numbers of your vet and a pet hospital available in case of an emergency in which your dog is injured.
8. Always pick up after your dog at the park – carry waste disposal bags at all times. Our local parks provide waste bags as well as trash cards for waste disposal.
9. Be sure your dog is well rested and energized – and while at the park be sure she rests between sessions of play. Susie manages herself in this regard quite well.
10. Small dogs and large dogs should be separated at the park – our park has a separate area for small dogs. If things ever get out of hand, a small dog is at greater risk if a large dog gets aggressive and can be hurt or even killed.
11. Learn the difference between dogs playing and dogs fighting. A course on dog body language will help you to spot the warning signs of things going in the wrong direction. It will require a separate article to go into more detail on this topic. Watch tails, ears, bearing of teeth, etc.
12. Watch out for aggressive dogs. If an aggressive dog is becoming a problem, leave the dog park, and return on a better day.
13. WATCH YOUR DOG at all times! Do not become distracted by talking on your cell phone, texting, reading, or talking to other humans at the park without also keeping your eyes on where your canine is at all times.
There is an excellent video about dog park issues and dangers by Dr. Susan Sternberg, a well-known dog expert that was run on WGN TV in Chicago. You can view the video at their website.
We will be bringing more detailed information on this and other crucial dog topics in the future. All of these subjects also apply to issues you might encounter traveling with your dog.
October 5, 2023
