Del Sur Dog Parks

NOTE: The image above does not reflect either of the Del Sur Dog Parks. It is used only as an example of a dog park.

Dog parks are convenient and a friendly places where neighbors meet to chat and share stories about their fur babies while sipping their morning coffees. It brings dog owners joy to see their canines race around, play with each other, and use energy that is best not left to the end of a day.

Del Sur dog parks are seated in a lovely park-like setting. One pen is designated for large dogs and the other for small dogs - most parks have those designations. Both parks have flat terrain. They appear so be well-kept, but it is incumbent upon the owners to pick up after their pets.  Doggie bags are usually available nearby. The fences are well made and each have double entries so owners can unleash their dogs going in and leash their dog as they leave.

Some of the drawbacks to dog parks include owners not cleaning up after their dogs properly, owners allowing their big dog in the small dog area, and not securing the gate(s) as they enter or leave. (Dogs are always well behaved ;-)  of course!) Sometimes the smaller dogs can feel threatened by larger dogs; other times little dogs adore the large dogs. It's probably a good idea to assess potential problems, although true dogs fights do not seem to be a problem within dog most parks. They do happen, however.

Monitor water availability and cleanliness for your dog, or bring water from home. In fact, water contaminated with feces is the most common way dog becomes infected with giardia. Dogs can also become infected by eating grass with feces that has not been cleaned up. Both of these examples can happen easily in a dog park with so many dogs. Giardia may require a visit to a veterinarian and include the following symptoms:

• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Failure to gain weight
• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Poor coat appearance

Thanks to Del Sur for making the parks available!