{"id":688,"date":"2019-05-02T12:23:26","date_gmt":"2019-05-02T18:23:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lonetreevet.com\/blog\/?p=688"},"modified":"2022-03-30T08:06:35","modified_gmt":"2022-03-30T14:06:35","slug":"dog-parks-are-they-right-for-your-dog","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lonetreevet.com\/blog\/dog-parks-are-they-right-for-your-dog\/","title":{"rendered":"Dog Parks: Are They Right For Your Dog?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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It sounds like a great idea \u2013 take your dog to a large, fenced-in area where it can run free with other canine friends. You get to skip the daily walk, check your email, maybe chat with other dog owners, then leave with an exhausted-but-happy dog. What could be better?
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Dog parks can be big on the convenience factor for us humans, but being in close proximity to lots of other dogs can also present some problems for your dog. Before taking your pup to the park, it\u2019s important to weigh the pros and cons, so we at Lone Tree Veterinary Medical Center<\/a> have some important points for you to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Good<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

For dog owners living in apartments, condos or homes with limited or no outdoor yard, an open space area for dogs to run and play together is a wonderful idea. Dogs by nature are physical creatures with an innate need to run, play and chase things \u2014 especially outdoors. Not having an outlet to be physically active can lead to frustration and anxiety, and often manifests in bad behaviors such as chewing, barking or aggression. The original concept of an outdoor dog park was to offer well-behaved dogs a place where they could work off pent-up energy by running, playing and socializing in a positive way with other dogs. In an ideal situation with well-behaved dogs and responsible owners, it can provide a very good activity outlet for your dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Not So Good<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Since it is a rare luxury to have the dog park to yourself, your dog will most likely be interacting closely with other dogs. With healthy, well-cared for dogs, things can go well. The problems pop up, however, when the dogs are not all vaccinated, or one has a contagious illness or transmittable parasites. Although in our modern world, most dogs get routine veterinary care  and have these issues addressed, some may not. This poses a serious disease risk, especially, if a dog has not had its rabies vaccination. Anytime dogs mix socially, there\u2019s a chance for disease and\/or parasite transmission. You can protect your dog by following these guidelines:
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