Dog Parks and Doggy Day Care “Pros” and “Cons” Ken Slossberg, DVM As good dog owners, we all want as healathy and fulfilling lives as possible for our pets. Many households do not have large yards or areas for dogs to run and play, and many owners are by necessiy away from home most of the day. For this reason, dog parks and dog day care centers have sprung up in most cities and suburbs. These facilities are dsigned to give pet owners a place to take their pets for exercise and play time to alleviate loneliness and anxiety for those pets otherwise left alone during working hours. There are many benefits to be gained by using these facilities, however there are some risks as well. Some of these risks may not be obvious at first glance. In deciding whether to use dog parks or day care, it is important to understand both the pros and cons to your dog’s health and happiness. Hopefully the following information will assist you in making a more informed decision about your dog’s acitivities. “Pros” 1) The most obvious and greatest benefit of parks is the exercise your dog gets running and playing with other dogs or chasing a ball. Day care generally provide this opportunity as well. Exercise is invaluable to your pet’s health and well being. Your dog’s heart, muscles, bones and psyche all benefits from regular exercise. 2) “A tired dog is a good dog!” A bonus of all that exercise is the expenditure of all that energy! A well exercised dog is calmer at home and generally better behaved, easier to live with and train. 3) Daily activity and companionship offered by day care centers helps avid destructive behavior and separation anxiety by alleviating loneliness and redirecting energy to constructive activities. 4) Allowing your dog exposure to other dogs and people teaches valuable lessons about both canine and human interactions and rules. This is called “socialization” and is important in helping your dog become generally well adjusted and a better “citizen”. “Cons” 1) The greatest downfall to the concept of dog parks and care centers is the risk of injuries. When groups of dogs get together, it can be a wonderful mix of playful personalities. How ever in natural dog pack behavior, there is only one dominant dog. The others are all submissive to that dog. Groups of unknown dogs may get along fine, especially since they are not on their own turf. But it only take one dog to dramatically change that dynamic. Dominant behaving dogs or aggressive dogs can cause dangerous fights and generally elevate the anxiety level of the entire group. This makes misunderstandings and scuffles even more likely. In the case of parks/centers that do not segregate by size, smaller dogs are particularly at risk of serious injury. Other injuries can happen innocently through friendly rough play or holes in/ debris on the ground. 2) A second very important concern is the risk of disease! When gathered in groups, viruses and parasites get spread very easily. Not all pet owners are as responsible or aware of their pets’ health as we would hope. Exposing your dog to those whose care is unknown can be potentially dangerous. There are both mild and quite serious diseases that are transimitted in the air, through minor contact and in the water bowels. 3) Costs are a consideration as well. There is a greater need for vaccines and other preventatives. Even if you take the recommended steps to protect your pet, there is always a chance for injuries that need medical care. “What to do” Ultimately the choice to take yur dog to daycare centers and dog parks is an individual one. We need to weigh the risks and venefits in your personal situation to determine if these facilities fit the desired lifestyle of your pets. Here are some things to consider to help chose your destination: 1) Make sure to ask your veterinarian if your pet needs any specific vaccines it may not already have BEFORE you take your pet to a common area. Other than the usual distemper-parvo and rabies vaccine, bordatella and canine influenza vaccines should be considered. Invest in good quality flea and tick prevention. Make sure your pets are as protected as possible against transmissible diseases! 2) For dog parks, are you familiar whether the people in the area are as careful as you with their animals? Is it safely fenced on all sides? Can you see your dog no matter where is runs in the park? Is it clean and does the park provide users with baggies to clean up after their dogs? Is a source of clean water provided? Does the park have separate areas for large and small dogs? Know the rules and regulations of the park. 3) With day car facilities, find out if and which vaccines they require the animals to obtain. Discuss with your veterinarian if theses are appropriate and adequate. Ask if they screen for social compatibility. Visit the facility for a tour. Is it clean? Are the surfaces safe and easity disinfected? Is there an odor? Do they offer individual play time if needed or desired? Hopefully these guidlines will help you make the right decision for your pet and yourself. Whatever you choose, always discuss your choices with your veterinarian BEFORE you take action! After the fact may be too late. THANKS to Dr. Slossberg for providing this helpful tool!