Okay, so about dog parks...?

Question

ok. so I go to the dogpark about once a week. and my dogs have never gotten sick

and my cousin recently adopted a pointer mix from a shelter. she really wants to go to the dogpark.

but my aunt said no b/c 'trishas (one of her friends) dog got sick at a dogpark'

and I said that as long as he is updated on shots and all he will be fine

but like always. they need proof

so...can anyone help me with getting together some information about dog parks and dogs health/safety?

and the dog park I go to is fenced in, off leash (if you want ur dog on leash thats up to you) and its a great park

Answer 1

we've had several outbreaks of distemper associated with our dog park and I've seen one GSD whoes owner said the chunk missing and stiches in his side were from the dog park.

Answer 2

Dog parks are not always the most sanitary places in the world. A lot of times no one cleans up after their dogs, we even have people who don't clean up after their pets at dog shows. If someone brings their dog who has worms to the park, he goes to the bathroom and the owner doesn't pick it up, your dog sniffs it, boom, your dog now has a great chance of getting worms.

I have had some close calls with dogs in the dog park. The only time I go is as a last resort for socialization. People who think their dogs listen let them off the leash, run into dogs that may snap in fear or lash out, and then we have a dog fight.

I'm sorry to go against your judgement, and I really do like dog parks, but sometimes they're not the best places in the world.  

Answer 3

could not trust the other owners..

Answer 4

There is no way of telling if the dog can pick up a sickness because you don't know every dog that goes into the park.

More than likely, if the dog is vaccinated, it won't get sick.

Someone needs to be a little less over protective! =p

Answer 5

Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations, especially bordetella (kennel cough).  There is still a chance to get kennel cough, even after the shot (several strains, incubation periods, etc).  Also, try reading this article - http://unleashedunlimited.com/dog-park-d... it will give you a lot of other good information about dos and donts while in the dog park.

Answer 6

    Dog parks are risky, not only from sick dogs or flea infested ones but there are aggressive dogs at our park. Many dogs including mine have been attacked and needed surgery to repair the holes. In our county one of the other parks had someone dump toxic antifreeze where dogs drank in. Only one died but others needed expensive vet care. IF your park is monitored there is a better chance of health and safety but in our non monitored ones, you can get bitten, your dog bitten, picks up fleas and ticks or worms. Plus there have been killer strains of KC cropping up every once in awhile. And if you, your kid, or dog is hurt it is just too bad, it is enter at your own risk.  

Answer 7

there is another strain of parvo going around and i wouldnt use a dog park . I am even afraid to walk my dog by my neighbors house he has dog that poops  in the road and im sure his dogs have never seen a vet . I wouldnt take a chance on dog parks

Answer 8

Many irresponsible people bring their dogs to dog parks. Their dogs aren't always in the best of health. They don't always clean up after their dogs. They often spend time on their cell phone, or chatting with other folks, and ignore their dog. They think it's "cute" that their dog is humping another dog. They think it's cool that their dog is the toughest dog there. I could go on with this, but I think you get my point.

There could be some merit to what your aunt said.

Answer 9

I don't like dog parks because of fights that break out there.  Your dog can be the most well trained, well behaved dog there, and he can get attacked by someone else's untrained dog.  I prefer play groups with people I know.  Sorry.