Pros and Cons of Dog Parks

Pros and Cons of Dog Parks

Taking your dog to a dog park can be a lot of fun and a great way to have your pup get some exercise and interact with other dogs. But there are some precautions and potential negative experiences that can occur in a dog park setting—think dog fights and exposure to infections and parasites. Let’s learn more about how to keep your dog safe and have a good time at the dog park!

            Pros:  Dog parks can be a great place for dogs to get some exercise off leash, particularly if you live in an apartment or don’t have a fenced yard. Dogs that enjoy the company of other dogs may also enjoy the social interaction of playing and romping with their own kind in a relatively safe environment.  Dog parks provide social opportunities for dog owners, too!

            Cons: Injuries, dog fights or dog bullying behaviors, exposure to parasites and exposure to infectious diseases are some of the potential negative aspects of taking your pup to the dog park.

            What should you do if you want to check out a dog park with your pooch?

First, make sure your dog is properly vaccinated. Spread of infectious diseases such as kennel cough or parvovirus tend to increase in situations where there are large numbers of dogs interacting with one another. Routine vaccines help to protect your dog from these potentially serious infectious infections. Don’t take young pups or unvaccinated dogs to the dog park and don’t take your dog to the park if he or she is ill with symptoms like diarrhea, coughing or sneezing.

Second, pick up after your pet! If your pet poops in the park, make sure to clean it up. Removing feces reduces the chance of parasite eggs maturing and infecting other dogs. Be a good pet parent and clean up to keep everyone safe and happy! Regular use of chewable heartworm preventatives offer protection against many common intestinal parasites such as roundworms and hookworms which can also be more prevalent at dog parks.

Finally make sure your dog is not frightened and plays well with other dogs. Some dogs love playing with other dogs. Others, not so much. If your dog is timid or nervous around other dogs or has displayed aggression towards other dogs in the past, the dog park is not the place to be.  Also, NEVER bring unspayed females to the dog park, especially when they are in heat. Intact male dogs may also be more apt to fight so use good judgement in deciding whether or not to take your un-neutered male to the dog park.  DON’T keep your pooch on a leash if all the other dogs are running free. This can signal out your dog out and draw unwanted attention him. You don’t have to follow your dog around if he is playing well with other dogs, but do try to keep visual contact with your dog so you can spot any potential problems. Fights can break out quickly-keep tabs on your pet and know what to do if a fight breaks out.  If your pooch does not look like he’s having a good time, leave.

Follow the rules posted at your dog park, remember to watch your dog for any signs that she is distressed or not having a good time and make sure she is fully vaccinated, not ill and on parasite prevention prior to visiting a dog park. Dog parks can be a fun place for socialization and exercise, but use caution to keep your pup from having a bad experience.

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/play-exercise/dog-park-rules-etiquette?lightboxfired=true#