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How much parking should be provided?Adequate parking will be necessary to prevent <br /> clogging streets or the parking lots of others with dog park patrons. Some cities have <br /> found that use of the park greatly exceeded their original estimates; extra parking had to <br /> be added. The location of parking should minimize any detours from the most direct <br /> route into the park. In general it is a good idea to require the use of a leash in parking <br /> areas until entering the off-leash area. Parking leading to a gated entrance provides an <br /> opportunity for placing advisory signs that are hard to miss. <br /> Should the park have a source of water? Dogs drink plenty of water during play, and <br /> some dogs enjoy swimming. Therefore natural ponds or streams may be desirable. On <br /> the other hand, if there is mud around, a dog will find it. Some owners prefer to avoid <br /> this problem. Owners should be encouraged to bring plenty of water with them if none <br /> exists at the park. <br /> How should the park be designed? Some parks are specifically designed for smaller <br /> dogs. Larger dogs do not usually attack small dogs,but small dogs may be injured <br /> engaging in play with much larger dogs. In most cases, dogs properly supervised will <br /> socialize easily in the neutral turf of an off leash exercise area. <br /> Are there any maintenance considerations?Primary maintenance issues include trash <br /> removal, snow removal, grass cutting, and wear and tear to walkways. Parks with enough <br /> area can fence off portions to allow for vegetation to reestablish itself in over-worn areas. <br /> Wood mulch may be applied to walkways to reduce erosion and improve traction. <br /> Are there other items to consider? Some parks have bulletin boards to provide feedback • <br /> on park use and to report problems. Many parks also have picnic tables,benches, and <br /> park shelters for shade and protection from the elements. <br /> CONCLUSION <br /> Off leash areas, or dog parks, provide great benefits to dog owners. Current statistics indicate <br /> almost one in four people own a dog. Dogs and their owners are happiest and healthiest when <br /> they have opportunities for exercise and meeting others. Dog parks have not proven to be a <br /> significant liability risk or source of complaints by the public. <br /> Following are some web sites where you can find dog parks or information about dog parks. <br /> These sites allow you to search for dog parks in any state. <br /> http://animal.discoveKy.com/features/dogpark/map/states/MN.html <br /> http://www.ecoanimal.com/dogfun/ <br /> These sites provide information about dog parks. <br /> http://www.dogplgy.com/Activities/dogpark.html <br /> http://www.dogromp.or /hg omepage_asp <br /> http://www.thebark.com/communily/advocacy dogParks/dogParks.html <br /> This material is provided as general information and is not a substitute for legal advice. • <br /> Consult your attorney for advice concerning specific situations. <br /> -2- <br /> Parks&Rec Track 2006 <br /> Off Leash Dog Parks-4 <br />