Many of us here in Dayton, myself included, are crazy about spending time with our four legged pals. Luckily there are lots of places to take them these days that are “dog friendly” In the greater Dayton area we are lucky to have ten off leash dogs parks, pet friendly venues, an indoor dog park and daycare pet paradises. In addition to these pet perks there are also tons of fun pet events in the area including my favorite the “Splash in Dash” which is held in Xenia every August.

Downtown Dayton’s newest dog park Deeds Point is located on the river and up the road from Kettering fields. This park has been a work in progress and has taken some tough canine advocates to put this all together. Local board member and canine advocate Karen Stephens had this to say about the park: “We’ve been in operation a little over a year and in that time, in conjunction with the city, have installed double gates, fixed fences, cleared brush and met a wonderful dog loving community in the heart of the city! We have several upcoming benefits to help raise the funds for establishing our non profit status. Once we have that, we can get liability insurance to open the bathrooms, upgrade the food stand, and hopefully lure someone with a hot dog stand knowledge to run our little food station. We also want to raise funds for a small dog area and a socialization area. This is a small area that allows dogs that need socialization, to feel secure in a small environment, but still can interact through the fence with the other dogs. The last thing is that we have an area that used to be a wading pool. It is still under discussion what to do with this area.” Parks like these are popping up throughout the area and providing a much needed area for dogs to socialize and get some energy out.

Keep in mind pet parks and events can be great fun but “owner beware” just because your pooch is well behaved doesn’t mean that everyone’s pet is. With that in mind here are some basic rules for the dog park:

• All dogs must display a valid license.
• Dogs must be current on their vaccinations
• Leash all dogs while entering and exiting.
• Owners must be within eyesight and voice control over their pets at all times.
• Puppies under 4 months are prohibited to protect their own health. .Maximum of 3 dogs per adult.
• All children must be monitored and accompanied by a guardian at all times.
• Be prepared to leash your dog immediately if your pet becomes unruly, worrisome to others, aggressive to animals or humans, or displays mounting behavior .
• Honor the request of others to leash your pet if asked.
• Dogs in heat are not permitted
• Aggressive and/or vicious dogs are not permitted.
• CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR PET! WASTE MUST BE DISPOSED OF COMPLETELY!

For a full list of area dog parks please visit http://www.daytondogblog.com/2012/05/updated-list-of-dog-parks-in-dayton.html

Maybe you are unsure of how your pet may react or you already know that your dog may not have the best social skills. No worries there are options to help even the hardest behavior issues! Pet paradises are a great option to get your dog on the right path or maybe you need a day away from home without worrying about who will let the dog out. Janee Moore owner of Moore Specialty Pet Care (MSPC) located off of Smithville Road has dedicated her home and life to helping dogs learn to be properly socialized. The mission of MSPC is as follows: ” To provide Personalized Quality Care for ALL Canines.  MSPC specializes in caring for and rehabilitating senior, traumatized, aggressive and rambunctious pets in a healthy pack atmosphere.  Through client education and training pets, we will strengthen the bond between owners and their beloved companions.  Our years of experience/knowledge of dog psychology/behavior will enhance pets’ lives by providing individualized rehabilitation and training. We create client convenience by offering multiple pet services and specialty products either on-site or at the client’s home.” It is important to note that this is a daycare not a kennel your dogs will be ridiculously spoiled walked several times a day and never be locked in a cage. Janee recommends having doggy play dates at your home especially if you have an un-socialized pet or a pet with issues. “Start with family that has dogs and move your way to all your friends or coworkers that own dogs.  Plan your play dates at each other’s houses to run around and go for walks or venture to constructions stores or Tractor Supply for a nice walk and sniff around the places.  Of course MSPC is available for doggies that need to be reminded of their doggy manners or build social skills.”

It is very important as pet owners to take responsibility for your pets behavior good or bad. When in a dog park environment or pet event there are always some minor scuffles that’s just the way it goes. The difference is pet parents who react by gaining control of their pets and the owners who are unable to do this thus causing injuries. The biggest problem are owners who don’t know how to properly introduce their dog to new dogs. Dogs are highly social creatures and will react when they feel scared, threatened or overly excited. We do have trainers in the area (Janee Moore and Kelly Kirsch) who specialize in helping owners and pets do this correctly. If you are not sure about your pet or have had problems at pet events in the past please consult a professional for proper training. Just because your pet may have reacted poorly in a social situation is not a reason to ban them or give up on trying. Usually it is something minor that can be corrected with training and consistency.

So you now have a perfectly mannered pet in Dayton so where should you go? There are lots and lots of fun events scheduled in the next months. A great local group called Dayton Dogs Unleashed schedule monthly outings to local dogs parks or dog friendly venues. Past events have included “Dogs Night Out” at Ritters, “4 Paws for Ability” 5k and mile walk, and the annual Woodland “Woof Walk.”  Other local events include:

• Saturday, July 27, 2013 12:00pm – 04:00pm
  Petsmart Adoptathon– Feedwire Road

• Saturday, August 03, 2013 09:00am
  Woodland Woof Walk

• Wednesday, August 07, 2013
  RASCAL spay/neuter day
• Wednesday, August 07, 2013
  NOMAD spay/neuter day

Tails to Trails Hike

This dog hiking program is a fun opportunity to socialize. All dogs are required to have an accompanying adult human and six-foot leash. Participants must have control of their dogs at all times

Doggie Splash and Dash

August 17- 210 Fairgrounds Road Xenia

5k-9 Run, Walk and Wag

In conjunction with the 9th Annual Canine Carnival, this accurate 5K benefits the Humane Society of Greater Dayton

Canine Carnival

This 9th annual event is a festival for dogs and the people they own

Blind Bob’s

Every Tuesday at 4pm-8pm Yappy Hour

Olive and Urban Dive

Well behaved dogs only allowed on patio when available.

 

If you know of other local events or pet friendly establishments please let us know! We look forward to seeing you and your furry companion around Dayton 🙂