Dog Parks and Play by AHS
Dog Parks and Play Table of Contents How to Introduce dogs • How to Successfully Introduce Two Dogs • Understanding Dog Tolerance • Safe Group Play for Dogs and Puppies • Before You Go to The Dog Park Dog Parks and Their Benefits • How Does a Dog Park Work • How Do Dogs Benefit • How Do People Benefit • How Does the Community Benefit • At A Glance How to Establish a Dog Park • How Do I Gather Support • How Do I Effectively Present a Proposal • At A Glance Countering Objections to Dog Parks • What About Dog Fights • What about Dangerous Behavior Toward People • Won’t It Be Noisy
• Who Will Remove Dog Feces • Who Will Supervise the Dog Park Suggested Dog Park Features Suggested Dog Park Rules For More Information
How to successfully introduce two dogs When you're introducing two dogs to each other, first impressions matter. How the dogs interact in their first few encounters can set the tone for their entire relationship, so follow these steps to set their relationship up for success. Here's what you'll need to get started: • One person per dog • 4–6 foot nylon or leather leashes will give you the most control (avoid retractable leashes). • A spacious, neutral area (preferably outdoors) for the introduction to take place to avoid territorial behaviors and allow plenty of distance between the dogs. • High value treats like cheese or hot dogs cut into small pieces.
Do • Use a happy, calm voice. • Keep the leash as loose as possible while still maintaining control. Don't • Punish the dog for getting too excited, barking, or whining at the new dog. The goal is to encourage your dog and build a positive relationship with the new dog. Start with walking outdoors 1. Start on neutral territory where you have plenty of space, like a park, open field, or quiet street. Start on opposite sides of your space walking the same direction. When one dog looks at the other one, they get a treat. Keep walking until they are no longer focused on each other. 2. Repeat your walk and reward method moving about 3-5 feet closer. As long as the dogs continue to pay more attention to you and less attention to the other dog, continue walking. If the dogs become too focused on each other, add more distance until they can successfully walk, take treats, and ignore each other. 3. Slowly decrease the distance (this might take a few walks) until the two humans can walk next to each other with the dogs to the far right and left of them and can move forward without obsessing over the other dog. 4. Once you’re consistently walking well, allow the dogs to circle and sniff each other for a few seconds then lead them away. Repeat this several times. Any time the dogs’ bodies go still, lead them away and take a break.
5. Once you have several meetings where the dogs’ bodies appear relaxed (loose, wiggly bodies) the next step is to try the two dogs loose in a fenced area so they can move around as they wish. Tips for home introductions The steps outlined above provide an optimal opportunity for dogs to meet one another. If that's not possible, however, use these tips for an introduction at home: • Do outdoor introductions before bringing the dogs into the house together. • Leave the leashes on so you can control both dogs if needed. • Be sure to remove any bones, toys, and food bowls that your resident dog might feel the need to protect from the new dog. • Keep the dogs separated while you are gone until they are comfortable with each other under a variety of circumstances. • When you are home, supervise their interactions and give them breaks from each other by crating one at a time or taking them for separate walks. • If an altercation occurs, separate the dogs for a few days to give them a break from each other. Stress hormones can take this long to return to normal, and if you try to continue the introduction too soon, the altercations could get worse. After a few days, you can return to the previous step to continue building a positive relationship. Keep in mind: Some posturing and mild aggression can be normal as dogs become more comfortable, even after a successful first few days or weeks. Don’t panic!
If you're concerned it’s escalating or there is an injury, separate them as soon as safely possible and contact our free Behavior Helpline at 763-489-2202 for support. Our friendly staff can help you assess the situation and advise on next steps.
Understanding dog tolerance Many dog owners have a vision of their dog frolicking happily among a group of other dogs, tongue lolling out the side of his mouth, grinning from ear to ear. The reality isn't always so picture perfect, though — leaving many canine owners wondering how they can ensure their puppy grows into a social dog, or what they did in the past to cause their adult dog to be unsocial or dog reactive. To help better understand dog tolerance and how it can change throughout a dog's lifetime, our trainers shared answers to some common questions and misperceptions. Frequently asked questions on dog tolerance and reactivity Q: “I thought socialization would prevent my puppy from becoming reactive or aggressive toward other dogs?” A: Socialization — exposing a puppy or young dog to unfamiliar people, places, and things — is indispensable in creating good canine citizens, yet it may not be enough to prevent dog reactivity. It's important to realize that dog-directed aggression is a behavior and
not a personality trait. It emerges from a combination of genetics and environmental factors, like socialization, in response to a situation. Q: “But my four-month-old puppy loves everyone, people and dogs.” A: Most puppies are what we call “dog social,” meaning they truly enjoy the company of other dogs. However, most dogs’ social skills change as they mature. Some are “dog tolerant” (indifferent or friendly) while others are “dog selective” (liking some dogs but not others) or “dog reactive” (needing close supervision and safe management). Q: “What will my dog’s tolerance level be?” A: A dog’s tolerance level depends on both environmental factors (how the dog was trained, handled, and socialized) as well as his/her genetics. It’s also important to understand dog tolerance levels can change based on individual circumstances, like whether the dog is feeling ill or in pain, or if the surrounding environment is stressful. The key to success is reading your dog’s body language and comfort level in all situations and reacting accordingly. Q: “How do I know if my dog is feeling comfortable around another dog?” A: Look for a relaxed body, relaxed face (squinty eyes, “smiley” mouth), loosely wagging tail or “wagging butt,” and smooth movements. Be on the watch for stiffly-held bodies, “whipping” tails (vertically-held tails wagging forcefully over the dog’s back), hard stares with closed mouths, and high-pitched, aroused whining. If your dog isn’t displaying relaxed body language, it’s best not to engage in dog-to-dog interactions — it takes only seconds for a tense situation to become a confrontation.
Q: “Does this mean my dog will never like other dogs?” A: Not necessarily. Some dogs’ tolerance improves dramatically with behavior modification (a specific kind of training), responsible handling, and/or slow, careful introductions to appropriate dogs. Since dog-directed aggression does not correlate to human-directed aggression, dog-reactive dogs can still be great pets for owners willing to manage their pet’s behavior for life (leashes at all times, no dog parks, and careful management on walks).
Safe group play for dogs and puppies Supervising a group of dogs at play is a big task: interactions are subtle, behavior changes quickly, and it's loud. How can you tell if the play is no longer playful? Follow these guidelines. • Play should be enjoyable for all dogs. A dog shouldn't participate in playgroups or daycare if they're reactive to other dogs or people — especially if they've caused injury. Playgroups aren't for every dog. Some dogs don't enjoy play and will hide, flee, or snap at other dogs in an attempt to keep them away. Some dogs make themselves as small as possible to avoid conflict. Putting a dog like this into a group play setting can often make a dog more fearful.
• Play is important for puppies, while mature dogs (2-3 years and older) may show little to no interest. Play becomes less important as a dog ages. There are always exceptions, so observe each dog to determine if they find play enjoyable. • Puppy play, adolescent play, and adult play are different. This is critical to understanding which encounters are appropriate. Puppies are allowed to do (almost) anything with minimal consequence, while boisterous adolescents can provoke older dogs. Allow the older dog to react with a loud “snark.” It helps young dogs learn what is acceptable behavior as they mature. Intervene if the younger dog does not heed the warning or if the mature dog allows but is not enjoying the interaction. Signs of appropriate play • Loose, floppy bodies with exaggerated movements. • Relaxed, goofy, and smiley faces. • Play bow: front half of body down, butt up. • Consensual patterns: both dogs engage each other willingly, neither tries to flee. • Self-handicapping: soft biting; tackling, then jumping off. • Bouncy movements. • Activity shifts: frequent change in play style (chase, wrestle, lie down, paw at each other). • Play freeze: dogs who play, pause, then resume playing. • Playing in pairs. When more than two dogs are involved, it frequently results in inappropriate behaviors (ganging up on one dog or overstimulation).
• Chasing in between two dogs only. • Play that goes back and forth between dogs (although it may not be a perfect 50-50 split). Warning signs of inappropriate play • Stiff, tense bodies. • Small, spare movements. • Non-consensual encounters (body-slamming a frightened dog). This includes play that may be benign on the “bully” dog’s part. • A dog who prevents another dog from moving by standing over them or trying to keep them in one place. • High or escalating arousal levels: loud barking, body slamming, lunging, and mouthing without freeze in play. This escalation can lead to a fight. • Fixation on a particular dog (especially in bully breeds). • Lack of behaviors above. When to intervene • When a dog becomes stiff. • When a dog shows signs of distress (screaming, yelping, hiding, tail tucking). • When a dog "stalks" another dog (fixation). • When the mood of the group escalates upward — when all dogs become more aroused (noise, barking, chasing). • When dogs "yell" at each other.
• Humping: give the "victim" dog a chance to tell off the humper. Dogs learn this behavior is inappropriate a lot more quickly from each other than from our interventions. If the behavior doesn't stop and the victim appears stressed, remove the dog that's humping. If a fight breaks out, go to the dogs (don't call from across the room), clap loudly or make a loud noise to startle them. When they release, grab the hips of the dog behaving inappropriately and pull the dog away. Don't grab collars or step between them. This can result in a redirected bite at you. Consent test If you aren’t sure whether an interaction is okay, remove the more “forward” of the dogs by grabbing their hips, restraining them from play. If the unrestrained dog returns for more play, let them loose again. If the unrestrained dog doesn’t engage the restrained dog, remove the dog from play for a few minutes or redirect them to another activity.
Before you go to the dog park Off-leash parks are great resources for exercising, stimulating and socializing dogs. Here are a few things to consider before going there with your dog. Will your dog enjoy the park? Not all dogs enjoy playing with unfamiliar dogs, particularly upon reaching social maturity (2-3 years of age). Young puppies who have not yet received a rabies vaccination should avoid the park for two reasons: disease prevention and the risk of being frightened by large, older dogs. Take young puppies instead to supervised playgroups (such as those offered at the AHS Training School) or “play dates” with friends’ puppies to ensure that their first several interactions are pleasant
ones. Finally, dogs that display aggression toward people or dogs are not candidates for the dog park. Does your dog come when called? Practice calling your dog to come. Start in your living room, and gradually work up to practicing across several rooms and in the backyard (as long as it is fenced!). Reward your dog generously each time he comes to you. Why is this important? Knowing your dog will likely come when called is a safety issue. What if play gets too rough, or a fight breaks out? What if you simply would like to leave and can’t get your dog to follow you? Wait until your dog will come to you most of the time before introducing her to off-leash play. Children at the dog park Keep children close by and under direct control: they should not run around, scream or encourage dogs to chase them, as this could result in serious injury. Not all dogs are familiar with children and may perceive running and screaming as prey behavior. Small children allowed to wander among groups of playing dogs may be knocked over or stepped on, possibly creating a long-term fear of dogs in general. Dog park manners There’s no delicate way to say this: not all owners who attend dog parks show good judgment about their own dogs’ behavior. Many people have difficulty distinguishing normal play behavior from bullying and may not realize their dog is being rude. Others may mistake arousal for playfulness, allowing a potentially dangerous situation to develop.
If you feel your dog is becoming overwhelmed, take him out. The benefits of exercise are lost if the dog experiences only stress and anxiety. On the other end, some owners become very frightened when observing normal dog-dog interactions, sometimes perceiving a “fight” where none exists. It’s important to remember that puppies learn proper social skills from well-socialized adult dogs, who will teach them their limits without causing harm. An adult who growls and barks at a puppy that has jumped on his head is not fighting; he’s saying, “That’s unacceptable…cut it out.” Permits Make sure your dog is wearing her off-leash permit tag (if required) so that park officials can verify it if needed. This not only shows them that your dog is up to date with her vaccinations, but that you are a responsible owner with the public’s safety in mind. The more dog owners are perceived as responsible and caring, the better our dogs’ prospects for future off-leash play options.
Dog Parks and Their Benefits A dog park is a designated public area where dogs can safely and legally socialize, play, and exercise off-leash. Since the 1970's, many dog parks have been established across the United States. They are becoming increasingly popular thanks to responsible pet owners and community agencies and officials who realize their important role in improving not only the quality of life for dogs, but for all of us. How does a dog park work? A dog park is usually supervised by an association of dog owners whose members can exert peer pressure to enforce the rules of the dog park. The dog park group monitors the park’s use, cleans up, raises funds for amenities, and serves as communications liaison with the city, neighborhood, and dog owners. In some cases, the core dog owner’s group may raise the funds necessary to build the fence, supply pooper scoopers, post signs, etc. However, funding may come from a corporate sponsorship or from the park department, and the
government agency providing the land may provide trash containers and pickup, benches, water fountains, and maintenance of the grass. Some dog parks charge a usage or permit fee. How do dogs’ benefit? In the past the hunting, herding, and guarding roles of dogs provided opportunities for companionship with other dogs and humans, as well as plenty of vigorous exercise. Exercise, in addition to improving the physical health of our dogs, also improves their mental health. Today many dogs spend a large portion of their day alone and inactive, and the stress of this abnormal lifestyle can result in many undesirable outcomes: obesity, self-mutilation, digging, chewing, soiling, barking, escaping, etc. Dogs are social animals, and those who are allowed to interact with other dogs and people, and taught appropriate behavior in social groups, are better behaved and more likely to be included in other activities with human companions. Posted dog park rules usually prohibit individual dogs with a known history of dangerous behavior and require owners not leave their dog unattended; thus, any dogs that exhibit dangerous behavior are removed immediately, and dogs learn that aggressive behavior is unacceptable. How do people benefit? Dog parks provide an important recreational outlet for humans too by bringing together dog lovers of all ages, health, social, and economic status. With dogs as social lubricants encouraging conversations among strangers, people in the community get to know each other and share information about responsible pet ownership. Dog parks enable people with disabilities and senior citizens who cannot always walk their dogs a safe alternative. By spending quality time with their pet at the dog park, owners strengthen the bond with their pet. Dog parks contain animals in
public areas away from people who prefer not to interact with them, and dogs who have had the benefit of dog park socialization and Exercise, are better behaved when encountered elsewhere. How does the community benefit? A dog park increases public health. Toileting and marking behavior that is stimulated by exercise or the presence of other dogs is contained in dog parks. A fenced dog park prevents injuries that befall dogs running loose and because the dogs are better behaved and controlled, there should be less dog-related problems elsewhere in the park or the community at large. By their presence, groups of dog owners and their dogs may help deter crime. A dog park makes it easier for a city to enforce its leash law since owners who have access to a dog park have no excuse for letting their dogs run loose. Since behavioral problems are often cited by dog owners who relinquish their dogs, dog parks may alleviate overpopulation at shelters. AT A GLANCE Imagine places where dogs can play, exercise, and socialize safely and legally off-leash. In the United States and in other countries around the world, these places - commonly known as “dog parks,” “dog runs,” or “free running areas” - are rising in popularity and demand. Commonly managed by users in cooperation with local government, dog parks may or may not be fenced and may range in size from one-quarter to more than 50 acres. The planning and perseverance required to establish a dog park is offset by the many benefits it brings to people and their canine friends.
How to Establish a Dog Park Local dog associations with a core group of dedicated people who will make a long-term commitment to establishing and maintaining a dog park have been the major impetus behind their creation. These groups gather public support, petition the city council, and plan the specifics of a proposed dog park. How do I gather support? In order to gauge public interest in establishing a dog park, distribute surveys (see sample) to neighborhood dog owners, dog-related clubs, local humane societies, veterinarians, pet supply stores, boarding kennels, trainers, and groomers. Contact community representatives, park department officials, and media, and ask them for their support to establish a dog park in your area. Write letters and e-mails (see sample), telephone, and circulate petitions (see samples), and seek out endorsements from veterinarians, animal control agencies,
community leaders, animal behaviorists, dog trainers, and established dog park groups (see sample quotes). Encourage supporters to attend and speak up at community board and community affairs meetings. Find a site. A dog park may be developed in a low-usage area of an established public park, other unused public land, or purchased or leased private land (see Suggested Dog Park Features). How do I effectively present a proposal? Talk to people in your community’s planning department or the parks department. Present all the benefits of a dog park (see Dog Park Statement). Be prepared to discuss their concerns about liability issues pertaining to dog fights and dogs attacking humans, feces control, noise, and supervision of the park (see Countering Objections to Dog Parks). Most city ordinances contain “dog at large” clauses that prohibit dogs from running off-leash in any public area. To legally establish a dog park, this clause must be amended. This amendment, giving a general description of the dog park and reviewing its rules, should be approved by the Park and Recreation Department. If the City Council approves the amendment, the City Attorney will put the clause into effect. Work with your local animal control agency to ensure that they are supportive of these amendments and will assist with enforcement if needed. AT A GLANCE Don’t give up. It may take several years of active campaigning for the dog park to be approved by community board members, park department officials, and other relevant community representatives. And it doesn’t end there. An on-going commitment by the dog group association will be required to help maintain the dog park. If dogs could vote, they would definitely be in favor of dog parks. Speak up for them. It’s their world too!
Countering Objections to Dog Parks Resistance may come from non-dog owners, dog park neighbors, or council members, and it is always important to listen to any objections. If they are well founded, solutions can be sought, and if they are based on misinformation, calm discussions can educate. What about dog fights? Most dogs are not aggressive when outside their own territory. Since dogs with a history of dangerous behavior are not permitted in the dog park, and owners are present to remove their dog at the first sign of dangerous behavior, fighting will be minimized. A National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) study showed no incidents of dog fights in dog parks resulting in libel suits.
What about dangerous behavior toward people? The same NRPA study showed no incidents involving dogs attacking humans. Most states have “dog bite statutes” that make the dog owner legally liable for any injury or damage that their dog cause, and waivers may be inserted in city ordinances that make the owner take full responsibility for their dog’s actions in the dog park. The implied consent waiver should be posted in conspicuous locations in the dog park. Won’t it be noisy? A dog park should provide a buffer zone between the park and the nearest neighbors in order to cut down on noise and odors. Since barking is not common when dogs play and posted dog park rules require pet owners be present, barking can be controlled. Who will remove dog feces? One of the most common complaints to dogs in parks is their feces. Toileting and marking behavior that is stimulated by exercise or the presence of other dogs is contained in dog parks. Most dog parks post rules that require dog owners to clean up after their pets, and there is often a sponsoring group associated with the dog park to provide an example to other dog owners, educate them, and take responsibility for picking up overlooked feces. Necessary clean-up tools, including biodegradable bags, and pooper scoopers are often provided on site, and many parks provide trash containers and pick up. Who will supervise the dog park? A responsible association of dog owners whose members can exert peer pressure to enforce the rules is the key to success. The dog park group monitors the park’s use, cleans up, raises funds for amenities,
and serves as communications liaison with the city, neighborhood, and dog owners. Suggested Dog Park Features Dog parks across the country have learned by trial and error what features are important to a successful off-leash area. Here are some guidelines that may help you. • 1-5 acres since smaller parks may experience overcrowding problems, while larger parks may be too big to be wellcontrolled. • Good drainage to prevent muddy conditions that make the area unusable. • 5-6 foot fence to prevent dogs from jumping over the fence • Double gate system to prevent dogs from escaping when other dogs and their owners are entering or leaving the dog park. • Water fountain for thirsty dogs. • Covered containers for disposal of dog feces and feces-removal supplies to promote cleanup. • Shade trees to provide protection from summer heat for dogs and pet owners. • Central, well-lighted location to ensure the safety of dog owners and their dogs. • Wheelchair access so that all people can use the dog park. • Benches for pet owners to relax together with each other while observing their dogs. • Signs to clearly display the rules of the dog park and its boundaries. • Parking lot close by to minimize distance pet owner and dog must traverse to get to dog park. • Buffer zones, such as hedges, trees, and landforms, between park and neighbors to minimize noise and maximize aesthetic enjoyment.
Suggested Dog Park Rules A successful dog park needs rules that are easy to understand and visibly posted. Dog park rules are usually drawn up by the park department and the affiliated dog park association whose members provide an example to other dog owners and exert peer pressure to enforce the rules. • Dog feces must be cleaned up by owners. Due to the concentration of dogs in one area, feces must be removed in order to prevent transmission of parasites, reduce odor, and promote general cleanliness. Many dog parks supply bags to pick up feces for free or at minimal cost which encourages compliance. • Dog owners must be in the park, within view, and be able to maintain voice control of their dogs at all times. This encourages dog owners to seek some level of training for their dog and promotes appropriate dog behavior through strict supervision. Owners are present to observe and clean up when their dog defecates.
• Dogs with a known individual history of dangerous behavior are not permitted in the park. This discourages aggressive behavior. No dog should be excluded based solely on breed. • Dogs must be removed from the dog park at the first sign of dangerous behavior toward people or other dogs in the park. Responsible dog owners must teach their dogs that such behaviors are unacceptable. • Dog owners must have a leash in hand at all times. This enables the dog owner to remove a dog from the park for any inappropriate behavior. • Small children should not be brought into the dog park. Small children can be harmed inadvertently by a playful dog. Chasing may be viewed as a threat to a dog, and running away from and high-pitched screaming may trigger hunting instincts in a dog. A responsible dog owner needs to devote his full attention to watching his dog. • Dogs should be leashed while entering and exiting the dog park. It is important for safety and legal reasons to obey leash laws whenever your dog is not in the boundaries of the dog park. • Female dogs in heat are prohibited from entering the dog park. The presence of a dog in heat may promote fights among unneutered males. This threatens the dogs as well as their owners who must break up the fights. Unwanted pregnancies may also result. • Fill any hole your dog digs. Dogs and people in the dog park may be injured if they step into a hole. Designated digging areas within the dog park may help preserve the landscape and train dogs to dig only in specified areas. • Puppies and dogs must be properly inoculated, healthy, and parasite free. This protects all dogs and promotes responsible veterinary care. For puppies less than 4 months of age without full vaccination protection, socialization with friends’ or neighbors’ dogs with known vaccination histories and temperament may be safer.
• Dogs must be licensed. This promotes rabies vaccination of dogs and their licensing as required by law. • Limit three dogs per visit. It would be difficult for one adult to monitor more than three dogs. • Do not bring food into the dog park. Fights may occur over food, and dogs may get sick if they eat foods that are not part of their usual diet.
For More Information For more information about dog parks, refer to the resources below: So You Want to Build a Dog Park? A Comprehensive Guide for Municipalities and Private Entities. Author: Susyn Stecchi Information on how dog parks add value and quality of life to communities; what other communities did to get their dog parks; what to take into consideration when building a dog park; how to obtain or construct your own Dog Park equipment; and miscellaneous information, interesting tidbits, and generally unclassifiable items. Available online. Establishing a Dog Park in your Community, AKC: http://www.akc.org/pdfs/GLEG01.pdf Magazine Articles Adelman, Beth. “Dogs and Parks.” AKC Gazette, August 1996 v. 113, n. 8, pg. 34-35. Battiata, Mary. “Lassie Go Home.” Washington Post Magazine, May 30, 1999, pg. 8-13, 23-27. Bourbeau, Joanne. “Dog Parks: Can a Place That Lets Rover Roam Help Your.Shelter?” Animal Sheltering May-June 1998, pg. 19-21. Burnham, Patricia. “Dog Parks.” Dog World, June 1991 v. 76, n. 6, pg. 10-12. Crane, Candace. “Off-Leash Havens, Canine Heavens.” Animals, March/April 1990, pg. 28-31. Elmer, Irene. “Dog Parks.” Dog Fancy, July 1990 v. 21, n. 7, pg. 38-41. Kawczynska, Claudia. “Dog Power.” The Bark, No. 8, pg. 33-37.
Kochan, Maureen. “America’s Best Dog Parks,” Dog Fancy, July 2006, pg. 42-43. Marar, Eve. “Point Isabel: A Playground Made In Paradise.” Dog World, August 1997 v. 82, n. 8, pg. 34-37. Moran, Peggy. “Take Me Out To The Dog Park.” Dog World, April 1999, v. 84, n. 4, pg. 42-47. Skoczek, Marianne. “The Ruff Part of Town.” Pawprint, Summer 1998, vol. 23, issue 2, Peninsula Humane Society. Wolch, Jennifer R. and Rowe, Stacy. “Companions in the Park.” Landscape, 1992 v. 31, n. 3, pg. 16-23. Internet Sites American Dog Trainers Network: http://www.inch.com/~dogs/howto.html How to Establish A Successful Dog Run in Your Community (with useful links). DogPark.Com: www.dogpark.com A comprehensive list of dog parks across the U.S., pet friendly accommodations, tips for starting and maintaining a dog park, and more. Dog Play http://www.dogplay.com/Activities/dogpark.html Dog Parks, Dog Runs and Off Leash Play. What is a Dog Park? How Do I Start a Dog Park? Where Do I Get More Information? How Can I Find a Dog Park Near Me? (with many useful links). Marin County Dog Parks
http://www.marincountyparks.org/Depts/PK/Divisions/Parks/Main/ Dogs.aspx Local dog parks, benefits, group role, things to consider, dog park design, people etiquette. Freeplay.org: www.freeplay.org Supporters of off-leash areas in Los Angeles. Lists off-leash areas nationwide by state. Statistical information and blueprints for dog parks in the San Francisco area: www.sfdog.org The official site of ArlingtonDogs; www.arlingtondogs.org Municipal Research & Service Center of Washington: http://www.mrsc.org/subjects/parks/offleash.aspx
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