Page 36 - AreaNewsletters "May'18" issue

Available for Adoption! at Castle Rock’s Buddy Center
For information, visit dd .org • (303) 751-5772
With longer, warmer, spring days ahead, dog parks get crowded with pet-parents and their dogs. While these parks can be a great place to let your canine companion romp freely, chase balls and socialize with other dogs, it does come with some risks. Here are 10 tips how to keep your dog safe when visiting a dog park.
Before You Go
1. Is your dog a dog-park-dog? It is important to recognize that not all dogs share a love for the dog park. If your dog is fearful, acts aggressive or threatening to other dogs or people, then opt to take your companion on another outdoor activity instead. Behavior technician, Zoe Knox says “Dog parks are for dogs who are already social and enjoy the company of multiple other dogs. Dog parks should not be used as a tool to attempt to socialize your adult dog. If you would like to work on your dog’s social skills that should be done under the guidance of a positive reinforcement trainer in a controlled setting.”
2. Obedience. Does your dog respond to basic commands in highly distracting environments? For his safety and that of others, your dog must be as reliable and responsive as possible to basic commands such as come, leave it, stay and sit.
3. Got a high energy dog? Take a 10-15 minute walk to help release pent up, excess energy before entering the dog park. The extra energy release will help your dog behave a bit more politely to other dog park visitors.
4. the best dog parks. Our Behavior team recommends visiting dog parks that have wide open, enclosed spaces instead of smaller neighborhood gated parks. Favorites include Cherry Creek Park or Chat eld Park south of Denver and Bear Creek Park in Colorado Springs.
LEILA
(A0777838)
Leila is an adorable cat who is looking for her new home. She is affectionate, enjoys being around people and getting pet. She has lived well with dogs but would prefer to be the only cat in her home.
FRANK
(A0778693)
This handsome boy is looking for his new home. He has an affectionate personality and will reward affection with his adorable purr. Frank is a curious cat and would do best in a home with older children.
10 Dog Park Safety Tips
VERA
(A0778850)
Vera is an affectionate cat who is ready to meet her new family. She has lived well with other cats and a small dog in the past. She enjoys being pet and will seek out affection. Come meet her today.
OTIS
(A0778245)
Otis is an old friend with a lot of love left to give. This handsome boy is looking for a home with lots of love and warm sunbeams to nap in. He has lived well with other dogs and is ready to relax in his new home.
Located at
Harmony Equine Center in Franktown
CYCLONE (A0756074)
Cyclone is a cute colt with tons of character and spunk. He’s halter broke, stands for the farrier, and would make a good young project horse for someone. He has been gelded and is up to date on farrier, deworming and vaccinations.
May 2018 • Castle Rock “AreaNewsletters” 36
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