OkcPets Magazine March 2021

March/April 2021 • OKC Pets 25 7 rules for an uneventful visit to your local dog park WRITTEN BY: Michael Bell O ver the past year, pet ownership/adoption has grown ex- ponentially. The American Kennel Club has seen a 180% increase in inquiries from potential dog owners while the AS- PCA has seen a 600% increase in visits to its puppy fostering pages. Surveying the crowded Midtown Mutts Dog Park on a warm Satur- day in January, it was easy to see these statistics in the flesh. Growing pet ownership is a great thing. How- ever, some issues need to be addressed about your new companion. One of those issues is dog park etiquette. Dog parks are essential for providing a safe environment where dogs can run free and be off-leash. For new members of the dog-own- ing community, a dog park can provide a much-needed sense of stability and belonging. Following these simple guidelines will help to make everyone’s dog park experience safe and more enjoyable. 1 Make sure your dog is vaccinated. Don’t bring puppies to the park that have not received their vaccinations. All dogs visiting the park, no matter their age, should be up to date on vaccinations. Many low-cost clinics around the OKC metro area can assist with vaccinations if you are having a difficult time financially. 2 Don’t keep your dog on a leash. Walking your dog to the park on-leash is one thing as your new friend needs to learn and know that you’re the alpha, which will help you when there are other dogs present. But please never leave your dog on a leash while in the park. Dog parks are for play and exercise, which your dog cannot get if you keep him leashed the entire time. Additionally, the leash is a magnet for other dogs to crowd you and your pup upon entrance. This presents several serious problems as dogs only have two schools of thought: fight or flight. If you have your dog leashed and other dogs are crowding in just to say hello, your dog may become stressed, feel trapped and possibly fight to protect you or himself. Being off-leash provides the free movement needed to meet and