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Posts Tagged ‘pet-friendly’

Large & Small Dog Areas Designs

Tuesday, February 10th, 2015

Great Dane with a chihuahua dog for size comparison

How to Design a Dog Park that Meets a Variety of Needs

As dog parks continue to grow in popularity, the debate on whether or not the dog park design should separate the little guys from large dogs has started to gain a lot of attention, so we’d put in our two paws, err, cents worth. Here at Dog-ON-It Parks, we have designed and outfitted dog parks in all shapes and sizes. Our verdict? Space permitting, we feel it’s safer all around to have separate large and small dog areas.

The separation helps ensure that both the dogs and their owners are able to enjoy their time at the park and also provides an opportunity to meet the needs of all park users, regardless of the size of their pets. This alleviates the need to have requested time slots for big or small dog play time and can also help to maintain the peace, so to speak. An important consideration in establishing separate areas is also providing clear communication in regards to the size restrictions for each area. Posting dog park rules and signs like these is an easy and affordable way to help make sure everyone is on the same page.

meme of two dogs ready to go to the dog park

The magic words “Go for ride?” are sure to excite any pooch, especially if they know where they’re going and sometimes that excitement may be too much for a dog new to the park, or just a dog that is a little less confident. And when you add size to the equation? It’s even more challenging.

Large and small dogs often have different play styles and different breeds have distinct (and often humorous!) personality traits which can factor in as well. Even unintentionally, big dogs can end up injuring a smaller pup because they just aren’t aware that there’s a little guy running around with them. Also, if a scuffle does happen to break out, having a more even playing field from the get go can possibly save a dog’s life.

This concept is also ideal for shy or timid dogs. The smaller area is often calmer and less overwhelming than the larger area would be with four big dogs hurtling towards you and your pooch to greet you. Starting out in the small and/or shy dog area of the park is a great way to introduce your pup to the dog park in a more neutral environment, so they can have a positive experience.

Sometimes due to space or budget considerations, it isn’t feasible to separate the pack so here are some suggestions to promote a safe and fun environment for everyone:

  1. Always supervise your dog.
  2. Make sure your pooch has a strong recall. Practice makes perfect, and if your dog is less than enthusiastic about coming when called, work on this skill at home with some high value treats. Pretty soon, you calling their name will equal “On my way!” instead of “Nope – I’d rather play!”
  3. This is a biggie. Please, please make sure that your dog is properly socialized before visiting your local dog park. You are responsible for your pet’s success and safety. Not sure if your dog is ready? Try visiting the park during off hours where there aren’t as many dogs present to see if it’s a good fit.
  4. Know the park rules before you go. Many dog parks don’t allow small children, food, puppies and dogs in heat, among other local rules that may vary from city to city.
  5. Have fun!

meme of a hipster puppy dog

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Our Office Dog of the Month: Duchess

Thursday, January 22nd, 2015

Duchess the office puppy

Meet Duchess, the Lab

Meet Duchess, the newest addition to our office dog team! Duchess is a 12 week old lab mix and was adopted from a local animal rescue organization (we love to support dog rescues!). This little puppy is the sweetest girl who loves nothing more than being cuddled. Her favorite hobby is to grab her stuffed hippo and curl up in your lap while she plays with it.

She has been experiencing a lot of firsts and encounters every new task bravely. Stairs seem to still pose a challenge for her (and her face with all of the falling she does!) but we are confident she will master them soon.

Eating and playing with snow is also near the top of her list of favorites until she realized how cold it gets. She wasn’t sure about her new snow vest at first, but quickly learned to love it once it warmed her up… and we love how cute she looks in it.

She brings so much happiness to our office and has truly become part of the Dog-ON-It family! We are excited to watch her grow, experience the world and learn dog agility like our other office pups.
Stay tuned next month to meet office dog Rory!

Pet Parking 101

Monday, January 19th, 2015

Pet Parking Post with Wolfhound

Pet Parking Posts Make Life Easier

Have you ever seen someone tying their dog up to all varieties of objects such newspaper dispensers, chairs or café tables? Often times, these aren’t exactly the safest way to secure your pet (if you’ve seen Marley & Me, you’ll know why!)…especially when they’re not meant to hold a 70 pound dog who just spotted the cutest little squirrel across the street that they just have to play with – right this second.

One of our favorite solutions at Dog-On-It-Parks is our Pet Parking Post, specifically designed to give you an extra hand while you juggle your coffee, sweatshirt, ball thrower, bag or just a wily canine.

The vibrant colors and laser cut paw print offer a fun pop of color and the two hitching arms accommodate both standard and retractable leashes. Even better? It’s manufactured with heavy gauge (and rust resistant!) aluminum that is secured with concrete so you can feel confident knowing your pooch won’t pull it over if that pesky squirrel happens to run by again.

Our Pet Parking Post is compact and can be easily installed almost anywhere. It’s perfect for tying up your pet while you make a quick run inside the grocery or pet store, community center, property management office or even at the bank.

From being a cute talking point that people notice on their way into your business or dog park, installing Pet Parking Posts throughout your community helps to create an environment where everyone is welcome, either with two or four legs.


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