Dog Parks - we need more!

One thing I think most (if not all!) of us can agree on is that there aren’t nearly enough places in the city where dogs can run free and play with one another. Admittedly, there’s a huge shortage of real estate, which immediately limits the number of potential dog parks. But how frustrating is it to finally find a great place to bring your dog, only to have it closed down, the hours limited, or have other seemingly unnecessary restrictions imposed?

I’ve met dog owners who drive a considerable distance just to bring their dogs to a park where they’re safe and able to run and play with other dogs. As dog owners, we understand how important dog parks can be on so many levels:

Socialization – every dog should be socialized with other dogs and behave
properly with them. What better way than by regular, consistent exposure
to other dogs in a controlled environment?

Health & Fitness – a healthy dog is a happy dog! Regular exercise is just
as important for dogs as it is for people. Dogs have lots of energy (some
breeds have tons of energy!) and shouldn’t be kept indoors all day. By
expending their energy at the park, they become better canine citizens,
better housemates and better pets. Dogs spend all day dealing with all their pent up
energy, ther least we can do is provide a place where they can rum themselves out.


Dog Owners – dog owners speak a common language and have a
common set of needs and concerns. They have consistently shown
a willingness to work together for the betterment of the dog community.
By organizing play dates, meet ups, and even birthday parties, dog
owners continue to try and create environments and situations where
dogs are free to just be dogs with one another.

So, what are the solutions? How can we convince the public at large and the local governments that dog parks don't just benefit the small segment of society that are dog owners? It's up to us to educate them about our dogs, and what's important in their lives.

I'm interested in your thoughts - please drop me a line.

Thanks -

Linda