Dog Parks

It’s heartwarming to see our dogs running free, uninhibited by a leash. The dog park can also be a place to meet other dog enthusiasts, especially if he or she has the same kind of dog you have. It also gives your dog a place to burn off energy, especially if you live in an apartment, condo or somewhere without a securely fenced yard.

Because of this, a dog park is very tempting, but sometimes in reality, what can happen is frightening.

According to veterinarians, the most common injuries at the dog park are ACL injuries. If your dog tears his ACL, the surgery to repair that injury can cost $2,000 or more.

Injuries aside, there are often dogs at the park who should not be there because of fear or aggression issues. Other dogs might behave inappropriately, just like being a playground bully. Because of these reasons, the dog park should not be used to socialize your dog.  You never know the personalities of the dogs who will be there.

A young puppy should never go to a dog park. Their immature immune systems make them vulnerable to diseases, and not all adult dogs are patient with young puppies. The puppy could be injured by rough play or an over-the-top correction from an adult dog.

Pay attention
All interactions with other dogs need to be monitored continuously because behavior can change at the drop of a hat. One minute, dogs can be happily playing and the next minute they could be fighting.

Socialization defined
Socializing your dog is only a good thing if it is perceived as good from your dog’s point of view – not yours. If your dog sees an activity as scary, or if he gets injured, this can have a lifelong effect. Beyond that, it can have a lasting effect on your relationship because your dog isn’t sure that you will keep him safe.

So now what?
We understand that many of you will be taking your dog to the dog park, so we would like to help you make it a safe and positive experience for both of you. Narnia will be presenting a free talk titled How to be Successful at the Dog Park from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, April 18. The presentation is free, and friends and family members are welcome to attend. Please leave your dogs at home. I will have video from local dog parks and will explain how to read dogs’ body language