2010-04-21 17:30:16
The weather has been wonderful in the past week. I am sitting in my office with the windows open and I am already thinking about the end of the day. I often try to think of things to go and do with my dogs. Many of my clients are now taking their dogs to dog parks. Dog parks can be a great place for your furry friend to get some exercise and socialization, but I must remind everyone that there is etiquette to be followed.1. Dog parks are for dogs and dogs only. It is best to never bring any other type of animal to the park. Introduction of other types of animals can lead to fights. This does unfortunately include children. Dogs and children can easily frighten one another and bad things can happen. It is best to take the kids to the kid park and the dogs to the dog park.
2. Only take your dog if it has been fully vaccinated. Many very deadly diseases are easily transmitted from dog to dog. Dogs should have their full compliment of vaccines by 4 months and should be seen yearly for recommended boosters at your veterinarian.
3. Use good parasite control. Fleas, ticks and intestinal worms abound in places were there is a high density of dogs and dog excrement. Some of the intestinal worms can be transferred to humans. These “worm” infections in kids can cause serious problems. Make sure your dog is on veterinary approved preventive measures and make sure to pick up your poop. It is not only unsightly but can be dangerous to everyone’s health.
4. Dogs should not go to a dog park if they are not already polite and friendly with others. A dog park is not a place to rehabilitate a fearful or aggressive dog. If your dog is fearful or aggressive seek professional help and advice before going to a dog park. If you are unsure of how your dog will behave it is OK to use a basket or wire muzzle the first few times. It is better to be safe than sorry.
5. Before entering the dog park sit and watch the group that is already there. Are there a large number of big dogs and yours is small? Is there a large number of small dogs and yours is big? Does there appear to be a bully in the mix? You may want to go home and come back later if there is a concern.
Once in the dog park do not let other dog threaten or bully your dog and the opposite is true. If the bully does not leave then you will need to leave. Do not stay thinking that your dog needs “to get over it” or “learn to stand up for himself.” This will only make the problem worse.
6. Do not take toys or treat to the dog park. Toys and food may cause competition between dogs and may result in a fight. It is best to leave all food, even yours, and toys at home.
7. Be safe. Do not attempt to break up a dog fight by yelling at your dog, grabbing their collar, or putting yourself in harm’s way. An air horn or a non toxic citronella spray, such as Direct Stop may be your best bet. Also keep a cell phone on hand with the phone numbers of your veterinarian, the dog warden, and the police programmed in case of emergency. Aggressive dogs and people that will not leave need to be reported.
8. Be knowledgeable about dog behavior. Learning body postures, social signals and communication can allow you to assess a situation for stress, aggression, fear, play, threats, etc. This will allow you to more easily predict a bad situation and to prevent injury to your dog. If you do not understand dog communication educate yourself prior to going to the dog park.
9. Supervise your dog. It is not the time to be socializing or engrossed in a book. You need to be paying attention to your dog’s behavior as well as the behavior of the dogs around them. This is another good reason to not bring the kids as it is hard to fully supervise both.
10. Realize there is a risk. Taking you dog to the dog park is fun and rewarding. Do not be naïve, though; injuries do occur. Any time dogs (or kids for that matter) are allowed to play in large groups injuries can happen.
Please remember these basic dog park rules to make you day out with your furry friend as enjoyable as possible.
Dr. Kathleen Babbitt is the owner of Lima Animal Hospital. If you have questions please email her at babbittDVM@wcoil.com.
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