The dog park is an amazing place for you and your dog to socialize with other people and pups. Making sure your dog is well-socialized and has good doggy manners helps to ensure you and your dog a long and healthy relationship.
Some dog parks are municipally sanctioned, and some have been designated as dog areas by locals, depending on the area where you live. If you do not know what facilities are available at a given dog park, it is essential to come prepared.
When taking a canine companion to a dog park, here are some items that will come in handy! 1. Leash and Collar. Hopefully your dog will get some much needed off leash run time, but in the event that your chosen park is not fenced in, or if there are gates or gaps, you will need to keep Fido in check. It also helps to have your dog under control when other dogs enter or exit the park. One of the most likely times for dog park drama is when a new dog enters the pack!
2. Water. Some parks provide water containers and a fresh water source, but many do not. Your dog will most likely get quite tired from all the gallivanting, and will always appreciate a drink.
3. Poop bags. Chances are, your dog will go to the bathroom at the dog park. You should always be responsible and clean up after your dog. If you are feeling particularly generous, you can also use your poop bags to clean up the inevitable piles of poo that go un-scooped by other dog owners.
4. Treats... for you AND your dog! I like to bring a beverage and a snack to the dog park, in case I get tired before my pup does. I'd hate to interrupt puppy playtime just because I'm parched! You should also bring some of your dog's favorite treats as well, in case they need a snack. The dog park is also a great place to work on tricks and obedience, so bring something to reward your dog with when s/he is being good! Remember to bring extra treats for the other dogs you might meet at the park- but always ask a dog's owner before feeding anything to someone else's dog.
5. Toys. Some dog parks have tennis balls and frisbees for group use, but it's always safer to err on the side of caution and bring your own.
6. Wet wipes and hand sanitizer. It's not a real trip to the dog park if you and your dog don't come home dirty! Between tossing drooly tennis balls, handing out treats, and picking up poo, your hands WILL get dirty. You will want to bring some dog-safe wipes as well, to clean pup's paws before going back in the house! |