Welcome to Belmont Veterinary Centre! As experts in animal care, we want to share some important tips to help you keep your furry friend safe at the dog park. Follow these guidelines to ensure a fun and secure experience for both you and your canine companion.
#1: Protect your dog against infectious diseases
Before entering a reputable dog park, it’s crucial to provide proof of your dog’s vaccinations. Ensure that your dog is up to date with essential vaccinations such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella. Depending on the area, canine influenza, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis vaccinations might also be required or recommended. By keeping your dog’s vaccinations current, you’re safeguarding their health and the well-being of other dogs at the park.
#2: Visit during off-peak hours
Dog parks tend to be busiest immediately after the working day ends. During these times, they can become crowded with enthusiastic dogs eager to burn off energy. Unfortunately, overexcitement can sometimes lead to incidents, including bullying or fights among dogs. To avoid such situations, it’s advisable to visit the park during off-peak hours when there are fewer dogs. This allows your dog to exercise and play without feeling overwhelmed or chased by a large group.
#3: Double up on identification
While it’s unlikely for dogs to slip out of the double-gated entrance to the park, accidents can happen. To ensure a happy reunion in case of any unforeseen circumstances, make sure your dog is properly identified. Equip them with multiple forms of identification, such as collar ID tags, a collar embroidered with your phone number, and a microchip. This extra layer of identification increases the chances of your furry friend being quickly and safely returned to you if they happen to wander off.
#4: Watch for warning signs
Dog parks are not ideal places for socialization training. It’s essential to be attentive to your dog’s behaviour and watch for any signs of discomfort or distress. Some common indicators of stress, anxiety, or fear in dogs include running away, tucked tail, freezing, excessive drooling, disproportionate panting, trembling, cowering, clingy behaviour, lip licking, whale eye, raised hair, reactivity, or aggression (such as barking, growling, or nipping). If you notice any of these signs or your dog seems uneasy, it’s best to leave the dog park promptly to prevent any escalation of the situation.
Remember, off-leash dog parks may not suit every dog’s preferences. Some dogs prefer one-on-one socialization or exploring on their own rather than being part of a large group. Regardless of your dog’s socialization style, it’s important to prioritize their well-being by ensuring they receive regular preventive care, including protection against infectious diseases and parasites. We recommend scheduling your dog’s annual wellness visit with our team to keep them up to date and in optimal health.
Thank you for reading these must-know tips for dog park safety. We wish you and your four-legged friend many enjoyable and worry-free outings at the dog park.
