Dog Park Guidelines

In the past three years I have visited the QC dog park literally every day. I have observed many things. I have many stories to tell. I have heard enough rumors to be a guest on the Conspiracy Theory network. I think I have seen it all in terms of dog and owner behavior. Most of what I have seen and experienced is full of smiles and good feelings. However, there are a few things that concern me. I do not wish to be critical nor judgmental in any way. As President of the Critters Club, I only wish to make things better for all of us who are users of the dog park or who might want to be users.

Here are some thoughts and reminders:

  • Pick up after your pet and dispose of their waste in the trash cans provided.
  • Be friendly and welcoming. The dog park should be a friendly place for both pets and humans.
  • Bring in your dog on a leash to the corral area so as to not allow them to run freely off chasing a rabbit, coyote or Havilina or to be hit by a moving golf cart.
  • Once in the corral area (second gated entrance) unleash your pet. Leashes often result in protective behaviors and situations causing aggressive behavior.
  • Keep an eye on your pet and not on your neighbor. The doggie time is not party/social time.
  • Be proactive and anticipate any issues that might result in a problem for your pet.
  • Welcome new dog park users or guests of our members.
  • Help keep the water bowls fresh and full.
  • Control your pet both verbally and, if needed, physically.
  • Activity and play are normal aspects of being a dog and are normal behaviors at the dog park.
  • Puppies under the age of six months should not be brought into the dog park to prevent injuries.
  • Protective behaviors are common for some breeds of dogs and owners. Be proactive.
  • Watch for shy dogs and those who might be afraid; help to create a friendly and safe environment.
  • Minimize ball play that may result in conflicts involving the ball.
  • Avoid tennis balls due to their felt covers that could carry kennel cough or diseases that could be passed on to other pets.
  • Snacks are discouraged at the park when other dogs are present due to the potential of conflict.
  • Avoid alcohol use or smoking in the park. If you must indulge, do it outside of the park area.
  • Humping and other dominate related behaviors are natural yet could result in conflicts.
  • Do not be physically abusive to any dog in the park.
  • Do not have you or your pet block the entrance to the dog park.
  • If a human or dog is injured, it may be time to call 911.  
  • Do not keep your dog on a leash while using the park; it is asking for trouble.
  • If your dog is causing trouble, leash it up and remove it from the park for the time being.
  • If your dog has a tendency be a little aggressive or intimidating, try to visit the park during low use or no use hours.
  • Be respectful to all users, both human and dogs.
  • Make sure the gates to park are closed after you enter or leave the park.
  • If you have a problem at the dog park, report to it me ASAP.
  • If possible, vehicles are to use the paved parking lot in front of the administration office.