SELF IMPROVEMENT

due diligence meaning
Here are some tips to keep in mind at the dog park:

1. Separate big and small dogs. In parks that designate “small dog” and “big dog” sides, make sure you stick to the appropriate side of the park based on your dog’s size. The difference in body size alone can create a hazard for small dogs as they can easily get stepped on or rolled by the bigger dogs. In addition, sometimes bigger dogs will corner and chase smaller dogs, not necessarily out of aggression but because they might see little dogs as prey. A fluffy little white Maltese bolting across the park can look an awful lot like a rabbit in the eyes of a dog that is bred to hunt!

2. Supervise your dog at all times. Just because your dog gets along with everyone doesn’t mean it is a good idea to totally lose sight of him. You are responsible for your dog’s actions and you never know what other dogs will do, particularly when there are multiple dogs present. When dogs get together in a group they tend to develop a pack mentality, which can be dangerous if they gang up on other dogs. If you see your dog “ganging up” on another dog, pull him aside and have him take a break to settle down a bit.

3. Prevent altercations before they occur. Although nobody likes to be the owner of a "trouble-maker," you need to be responsible and consider the safety of the other dogs and people in the park. Like people, some dogs just don’t mesh and that is okay. If your dog is constantly clashing with another dog it may be time to leave and come back another time. Signs that another dog has “had enough” are flattened ears, tail between the legs, or constantly rolling onto his back.

4. Respect the comfort zones of other people and their dogs. There is a fine line between roughhousing and fighting, and some people either don’t know how to tell the two apart or simply don’t want their dog playing rough. If a person is not comfortable with their dog rough-housing with yours, that is their prerogative. Although you might know your dog is just playing when he pins another dog on the ground, other owners may not be comfortable with it and they are entitled to limit the type of interactions their dog has.

5. Don’t bring treats or food into a dog park. Bringing food items into a dog park is like bringing honey into a beehive. You may be the most popular person at the park to the dogs, but you also run the risk of starting a fight. The presence of food can create unnecessary tension and can cause some dogs to become territorial. In addition, not all dogs have the best manners and there is a good chance your sandwich will be knocked out of your hand and scarfed down by a hungry park guest.

6. Don’t wear your Sunday best to the dog park. I can’t tell you how many people wear white pants and high heels to the park, only to scowl and roll their eyes when they leave with muddy paw prints. It’s a dog park people -- dogs jump and roll in the mud so dress accordingly!

7. Look out for your fellow dog park attendees. The dog park can be a great way to meet people and creates a very communal environment. Dog owners tend to watch out for each other to reinforce a safe and fun atmosphere. Do you see someone’s dog squatting in the corner while they aren't looking? Politely let them know and they will most likely thank you for keeping an eye out. Nobody wants to have the reputation of not picking up after their dog. Which brings me to my next point…

8. Always pick up after your dog! Don’t pretend you are looking at your phone or petting another dog so that you “don’t see” your dog going to the bathroom. There is a good chance that someone else did see it and you better believe someone will eventually confront you about it! Nobody wants to be known as “that owner” who doesn’t pick up after their dog.

9. Be careful not to let any dogs loose when you enter and exit the dog park. Many dogs come to the dog park because they cannot be off-leash in an unfenced area and some of these dogs also happen to be escape artists. Don’t walk in and leave the gate wide open -- come in and close the gate quickly. If there are other dogs and people waiting to enter or exit the park, wait for them to pass before you go through the gate.

10. Do not leave your (human) children unattended. This seems like common sense but I have witnessed countless toddlers get barreled over by overenthusiastic dogs (or groups of dogs), which leads to crying children and angry parents. A dog park is not the best way to introduce a child to dogs for the first time, as it can be very overwhelming for a child to be surrounded by unfamiliar animals. In fact, bringing a child who has never met dogs to a dog park is probably a good way to create a phobia! If your child is accustomed to dogs and you are well aware of the risks of bringing them to the dog park, keep your kid close and hold his hand to prevent him from falling victim to a stampede of dogs.

The most important thing to remember is that everyone comes to the dog park to have a good time. Be respectful of other people and dogs, use common sense, and know when it is time to leave.

Entrance to any of the dog parks in Montgomery County requires a permit. Annual permits costs $40 for the first dog and $5 for each additional dog. Your dog must be licensed with the county in order to be granted a permit.