Toby's first visit to the dog park

[Sandy]

We got brave and found a lovely dog park about 30 minutes from our house. They have a web site, and we viewed pictures ahead of time. Off we went. Toby loves a good ride in the car, so that part was great. We got to the dog park, which was as nice in person as it was in pictures. Double gated, really big, etc. We went in and took off Toby's leash. He looked at us, and we told him to "Go Play!" He hesitantly stepped away, and then a little Scottie dog came over to make friends. From then on it was party time! It was so great to see Toby run full out, tongue hanging out, almost smiling. :) He mostly enjoyed the smaller dogs - the Scottie, a cocker spaniel, etc. We walked the perimeter a few times, and he came with us, running ahead, and circling back. I took good treats so I could lure him back if I had to. All in all, it was a fantastic experience, and we will be going again, and often. I will put pictures up when I get time.

[Sam]

That looks like a fabulous park. Our off lead dog park doesn't have a fence and is right on the car park........ the closest fenced one is in Sydney which is about 90 mins away........

[Sandy]

Okay Michele - I added a small album of pictures from the dog park. Enjoy! :)

[Michele, Biscuit & Mo]

Would love to see the pictures - sounds like it was heaven for Toby. Take video if you can next time! Have fun!

[Betsy D.]

How lucky you are to find the dog park! I can't find any in my area!! So glad Toby had fun and you can rest easy; it will be so much less stressful next time!

[Deena Womack]

dog parks are great... we worried about taking Cali the first time, but she took to it and had tons of fun.. she always keeps us in her sight and we keep a close eye on her.

[Kyoko]

I'm so glad he had a good time!! We found a brand new dog park 5 minutes from us last week. We have been enjoying going there as well. I think I'm going to start coming home to take her there on my luch from now on. ( I work 5 minutes from my house) I can see her staring to develope social skills, and how to play slowly, but surely.

[Stella]

So glad that you braved it!! It will really do him a lot of good to continue to meet and play with other, different, dogs. As long as the dogs he meets are friendly, it should increase his confidence. If you begin to go regularly you will begin to recognise other dogs (and their owners!!) and know who to stay away from! You will probably find that Toby stays away from any trouble makers anyway.

[Adrianne Matzkin]

The first experience was a positive one! that is fantastic!! We love the dog park also.
One word of caution - ALWAYS be with Toby. Wherever he goes, you go. You will be able to make sure that way that each experience is a positive one. If you have a doubt about another dog, walk away with Toby. Trust your instincts.