Community Corner

Summertime Do's and Don'ts for the Rancho Bernardo Dog Park

The dog park can be a great outlet for you and your dog. Learn how what to do, and not do, when you head to RB's dog park this summer.

By Katie Woolsey, The Escondido Humane Society

There are countless things I love about being a pet parent to my dog Blue, but I think the best part is that he keeps me active and makes me want to get up and go places with him. There is, however, one place I avoid: the dog park.

I’ve mentioned before that Blue is afraid of dogs, so the few times I did take him to the dog park he and I were both so stressed that it wasn’t a pleasant experience for either of us.

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There are a lot of pet parents and pooches who love the dog park, and it’s important to know the rules so everyone can enjoy their time there. Here are a few tips on proper social behavior for people and pets:

  • Dog parks provide a great social opportunity for people and our pups, but don’t allow yourself to get distracted in conversation. Keep an eye on your dog at all times, and if he or she is being unruly or bullying other dogs, it’s time to leave.
  • Always pick up after your dog. Most parks are equipped with waste bag stations, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own bags just in case.
  • Most dog parks are designated as off-leash, but please keep the leash on until you are safely inside the gated area.
  • Make sure your dog is wearing proper identification and is microchipped in case he gets out of the enclosure and makes a run for it.
  • Keep your dog up to date on vaccines, and carry the paperwork or tags to prove it. If your dog isn’t vaccinated, keep him home for his safety and the safety of the other dogs at the park.
  • Dog parks aren’t a good place for children. Youngsters can be knocked over by rambunctious dogs, and you never know how dogs will react to children—especially if they are screaming or running. You alone are responsible for your child’s safety, so if you do take them to the park never, ever leave them unattended.
  • Leave the human food, drinks, toys and treats at home to avoid fights.
  • Under no circumstances should you take a female in heat to the dog park.
  • Each dog park may have its own rules, so check the park’s website before visiting. If they don’t have a website, scout out the park first without your dog to find out if there are rules about age (for people and pets), size, behavior or how many dogs are allowed per person.

Now it’s your turn to weigh in. What are your thoughts on dog parks? Do you and your dog enjoy them? 

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The Rancho Bernardo Dog Park is at RB Community Park, 18402 West Bernardo Dr.

The Escondido Humane Society provides animal control and licensing services for Poway, San Marcos and Escondido, and adoption and humane euthanasia services for residents of any area.


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