Dog Parks: Make the trip fun, but safety first
Summer is almost here, which means spending more time outside and looking for fun things to do.
Most want to get out into the beautiful weather, and that includes your dog. Dog parks are a great way for your dog to socialize with other people and their pets, but like any other activity, safety comes first.
Josh Yockey, of Adrian, and his partner, TJ Wigton, spend lots of time with TJ’s 13-year-old German shephard/black lab mix Pandora.
“She is a sassy couch potato that demands her daily evening walk around Butler city and surrounding areas,” said Yockey.
The pair take Pandora everywhere with them, including mountains, beaches and the desert. They have also visited the dog parks at Butler Memorial, Alameda and Moraine. And although Pandora is well-socialized, being cautious is always a top priority.
“We are always cautious with other dogs off-leash in any capacity,” said Yockey.
A dog’s needs must always be considered when taking them anywhere.
“Owners should look for dog parks located in areas that give their dog plenty of space to help regulate their environment effectively,” said dog trainer Matthew Wilson, of Cranberry, owner of Control is Key Dog Training, located in Valencia.
You cannot depend on other dogs at the park being well behaved and trained, or on officials at the park to protect your dog.
“Most dog parks have rules and regulations, but are they not enforced,” said Wilson.
Prior to visiting a dog park, owners need to make sure their dog is fully vaccinated and is ready to handle any situation that may arise.
“Attention is very, very important,” said Nancy Kieffer, of the Butler Dog Training Association. “Focus and recall are essential when taking your dog to a park with other dogs and people. They need to be confident and secure with their owners.”
Knowing your dog is also key.
“It’s a great idea to know how your dog communicates and how to read their body language in stressful and excited situations,” said Wilson.
Reading other dogs and the situation at the park is also part of being a protective dog owner.
“I would evaluate the other people and dogs at the park,” said Wilson. “Do the dogs look like they are under control, does the owner appear to work well and have control over their dog or are they being dragged by their dog.”
Wilson says to also make sure to continuously keep an eye on the energy level at the park and the size of the other dogs around your pet.
“It is helpful if your dog does not feel out of place or intimidated by the other dog’s size and higher energy,” said Wilson.
Dogs are a part of the family. Just like any other family member, you want to make sure they are safe and happy.
“(Be) overly cautious. (I) cannot tell you the amount of times our old friendly gal has gotten snapped at by other ‘friendly’ dogs,” said Yockey.
Knowing your pet, keeping an eye on the situation and your surroundings, and providing the right training before going to a dog park will set you and your dog up for a successful outing each and every time.
