Recommendations for dog-park design to prevent injury and disease
By Katherine Waters
As one of the fastest-growing amenities in municipal parks, dog parks need to feel welcoming and accessible to canines as well as their human counterparts. Here are some recommendations on how to safely offer these facilities:
Mark The Territory
Dog parks attract a variety of dogs in sizes, ages, temperaments, and activity levels. A best practice for off-leash dog parks is to provide a minimum of two, separate, enclosed areas so large and small dogs can run and play independently with other dogs of similar size and activity/ability level. Providing separation helps prevent unnecessary conflict should a larger dog play too rough with a smaller dog. Limiting this risk for pets (and owners!) and easing the minds of park-goers is important.