How To

How to Keep Your Dog Safe at the Dog Park

Contributor
By Cherie Brunetti
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)
Keep your dog safe at the dog park
Keep your dog safe at the dog park

Taking your dog to a dog park can be fun for you and your canine. Your dog will have the chance to play and socialize. Many dog parks in urban areas allow your dog to be off of the leash. This provides city dogs with an opportunity to run and play freely in an open space. It is important that you remain vigilant about your dog's behavior and safety while at the park. The following article will discuss how to keep your dog safe when you visit the dog park.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Water
  • Water dish
  • Flea and tick treatment
  • Heartworm medication
  1. Step 1

    Keep an eye on your dog if he is very active or excitable. He is more prone to having an accident at the park than his calmer counterparts. Over enthusiastic play can result in sprain, joint strain, and other injuries. Watch your dog carefully to make sure that he does not hurt himself or another dog while playing at the park.

  2. Step 2

    Keep your dog away from other dogs who seem to be aggressive. Even a friendly wrestling match between dogs can turn ugly. Scratches and cuts from other dogs are common dog park injuries.

  3. Step 3

    Be sure to give your dog a flea and tick treatment before taking him to the park. You dog could easily get ticks or fleas from the outdoor environment or even other dogs at the park.

  4. Step 4

    Make sure that you have plenty of water to give to your dog. Regardless of the time of year, take water breaks often to keep your dog hydrated.

  5. Step 5

    Be mindful of any chemicals that may be used by park staff. This includes fertilizers and pesticides. If you see staff using any chemicals, go to another park or return on another day.

Tips & Warnings
  • If you think that your dog may have been exposed to any chemicals in the park, bathe him thoroughly with soap and water and watch him carefully for any negative reactions.
  • Always clean up after your dog. It is the courteous thing to do and it will lessen the chances of passing any diseases to other dogs.
  • If your dog shows signs of overheating such as vomiting, excessive panting, or lethargy, call your vet right away.
  • Be sure to have your dog on a regular heartworm medication. Parasites and viruses are easily transmitted between dogs through fecal matter.
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