by Joanne Bourbeau
Reprinted with permission from Animal Sheltering, May-June 1998.

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) recommends that most, if not all, of these rules and regulations be posted at community dog parks.

• Owners must clean up after their pets.
• Dogs with a known history of dangerous behavior are prohibited.
• Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated.
• Dogs must be wearing a collar with identification at all times.
• Puppies under four months of age are prohibited.
• Animals must be spayed and neutered.
• Leaving dogs unattended is prohibited.
• Owners should carry a leash at all times.
• Limit three dogs per person per visit.
• Young children must be closely supervised.
• Dogs should be leashed prior to entering and upon leaving.

Note: Going through Delta's Pet Partners^® training is a good way to be sure your dog is properly socialized and will be well-behaved at a dog park.

Photo credit: Jerry Davis, Seattle ©1999.

Read another document in this section:

• Dog parks: Can a Place That Lets Rover Roam Help Your Community?
• Off-leash, But in Bounds
• Dog Park Resources