“To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring - it was peace.”  ~Milan Kundera

 

My dog Polly and I have been fortunate enough to spend quite a bit of time at the beach in the past few weeks.  If you saw the movie or read the book Marley and Me (if you haven’t, do so immediately, but bring a box of tissues!), you might remember the Dog Beach in south Florida where dogs were allowed to swim and run and play off leash as long as their owners had control over them (not the case for poor Marley, the out-of-control but loveable Labrador).  Well, Polly and I have been enjoying that same beach and let me tell you, it is heaven!  No matter what day or time we go, there are always people walking or running or sitting with their dogs, throwing sticks or a ball into the ocean, and just enjoying the beach and each other’s company.  I remember years ago, when Polly was just a puppy, taking her to another beach where she promptly drank so much sea water she almost ended up in the hospital.  Thankfully, now that she’s an adult, she seems to have gotten the joke that while the ocean may be nice and cool, it doesn’t quench one’s thirst.  And luckily, she also seems to understand the rule that there’s no pooping in the ocean, a rule that Marley violated in the movie, much to his owner’s embarrassment and the disgust of the other beachgoers!

 

This dog beach is just the best.  I am really thankful that it has continued in existence and that there don’t seem to be any major objections to this mile-long stretch of shore north of West Palm Beach where dogs and humans can relax in harmony.  I’ve also noticed a lot of people without dogs who choose to come to this stretch of beach; I have some friends who say they get their “dog fix” by coming every weekend since they can’t have a dog themselves.  It’s really nice to see such a relaxed atmosphere, and just to watch these dogs (all breeds, sizes, and ages) having the time of their lives.

 

I think what makes this set-up work—what makes any dog park work—is the commitment by all dog owners to following the rules and maintaining control over their dogs, especially in those types of parks, like this one, where humans sometimes come without pets to enjoy the surroundings, and thus appreciate being able to have their picnic or read their book or soak up the sun in peace.  It’s been a good reminder to me that public parks that allow dogs—especially those unfenced ones that allow dogs off-leash, like the ones in Old Town Alexandria at Union and Gibbon or at Union and Oronoco Streets—benefit from responsible pet owners considering the rights of others.  Here are some good reminders to ensure that we continue to enjoy such unfenced, off-leash spaces with our dogs:

 

General Dog Park Etiquette

--Don’t bring your dog unless you know he or she is well-socialized and gets along with other dogs of all sizes and temperaments, and will come when called so as to respect humans’ space as well.

--If you’re bringing your dog inside a smaller off-leash park, it’s best to actually let him off the leash.  A dog can exhibit aggressive behavior if all of the other dogs around him are off-leash but he is not, as it can make him feel “trapped.”  Also, letting your dog run around dragging a leash not only gets the leash dirty but it poses a hazard to him and any other dog or person the leash might get wrapped around.

--Follow all posted rules, such as cleaning up after your pet.  Always have your poli-bags with you in case the park does not provide them; I’ve learned from experience to bring one or two more than you think you’ll need!

--Don’t bring food or treats unless you are willing and able to share them with all the dogs present!  That being said, if you are in a large park or at the beach where people might be picnicking, be considerate and keep your dog away from them.

--Make sure your pet is up-to-date on her/his vaccinations (especially Bordetella) and keep her/his collar and tags on.

--Consider bringing water and a bowl; some dogs will not or should not drink from communal water bowls and if you are going to be there awhile, your dog will need to stay hydrated.  Many pet supply stores sell collapsible bowls and portable water bottles for this purpose.

-- Be considerate of others, and keep your eye on your dog at all times.

 

Most of all, take pleasure in the fact that you are making your dog’s day; and remember, a few minutes at the park is the perfect excuse for YOU to relax, unplug, be present, and have fun.  Feel the love—it’s limitless!

 

Ashley Denham Busse has worked part-time for Doggywalker.com since 2006.  Doggywalker.com is a professional pet-sitting company located in Old Town Alexandria, celebrating 10 years of providing daily walks and customized in-home pet care. Visit www.doggywalker.com or email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . 

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