York County recently announced the opening of Back Creek Park's Bark Park in Yorktown. Featuring a large off-leash area where dogs can run freely without a leash, many Yorktown pet parents are excited about the new addition. As a professional pet sitter, Fear Free Certified Professional, and avid pet lover, I have my concerns about dog parks. Today, I'm going to break down the good, the bad, and the ugly regarding the new Bark Park in Yorktown. Let's go!
About the New Bark Park in Yorktown
First and most importantly, the park has been set up to offer separate areas for large and small dogs. One fenced area is for smaller dogs (weighing 30 pounds or less), and the other is for larger dogs (weighing 30+ pounds).
The dog park is located at the back of the Back Creek Park. When entering, drive down the entrance road towards the boat launch. The Boat Launch Parking Lot is the closest to the Bark Park, which can be found on the far left side. The area is open from sunrise to sunset.
New Bark Park in Yorktown: The Good
Dog parks can be really fun for some dogs. They get to be off-leash, sniffing, and interact with other dogs. While that's not the case for all dogs - we'll discuss that further below - if you have a dog that gets along with everyone and enjoys meeting unfamiliar dogs, the dog park will be a blast. Plus, it's a great way to meet fellow pet lovers in and around Yorktown. We've heard of couples and best friends coming together as strangers at dog parks because, let's face it, they already have something in common - their love of dogs!
Most pet parents visit dog parks for these benefits to well-socialized, confident dogs:
Socialization: Dog parks allow dogs to interact with other dogs and people. This socialization can help dogs develop better social skills. I love that this particular dog park separates dogs by size, which can be a great way to keep socialization safe.
Exercise: Dog parks offer a great place for dogs to run, play, and get exercise. This physical activity is essential for maintaining a dog's health and well-being. Having a fenced area to run is especially appealing to dogs that don't have much space to run in their home or yard.
New Bark Park in Yorktown: The Rules
Another good thing about the new Bark Park is that they have set up very specific rules for patrons. Per the Bark Park website, Patrons must observe the following rules:
Dog Handlers must be 16 years or older. Patrons under 16 are NOT permitted to enter the fenced-in area of the Dog Park.
Dog handlers are legally responsible for the actions of their dogs and any injuries or damage they cause.
Aggressive, non-socialized, sick, or female dogs in heat and puppies 4 months and younger are NOT permitted in the Dog Park.
Dogs may only run free in the off-leash area; leashes are required in the rest of the park.
Dog waste must be removed and properly disposed of at the onsite waste stations.
Dogs must have a current license and be up to date on all vaccinations.
No more than two dogs per visit per handler are permitted.
Handlers must be in sight and have voice range control of their dogs at all times; do not leave dogs unattended. Abandoned dogs will be turned over to York County Animal Services.
Food (Including Dog Treats) is NOT permitted within the Dog Park.
We think these rules are well thought out and agree that young puppies and children are safer left out of dog parks entirely. We also believe one person can safely handle two off-leash dogs in this environment, no more. Setting limits around the ages and number of pets handled will set patrons up for success. To learn more about York County's dog licensing click here.
New Bark Park in Yorktown: The Bad
Many experienced pet parents avoid dog parks. I'm one of those pet parents. I worry about the other dogs and inexperienced pet parents because not all dogs are comfortable in a dog park environment. I also worry about contagious diseases being spread, which is why puppies aren't allowed in dog parks until after they are fully vaccinated.
Here are my top two concerns about dog parks:
Potential for conflict: While dog parks can be a great place for socialization, there is always a risk of conflict between dogs or between dogs and people. Aggressive or territorial dogs can pose a danger to other park users. Especially when humans bring balls and toys into the mix or fail to see their dog's limits, chaos can ensue.
Health concerns: Dog parks can be breeding grounds for diseases and parasites. If not properly maintained or if park users do not follow proper hygiene practices, dogs can be exposed to contagious illnesses. Unfortunately, rain can turn a dog park into a muddy mess. And, stagnant water coupled with high temps can breed mosquitos and other potentially harmful critters.
New Bark Park in Yorktown: The Ugly
Most of the time, dogs that are comfortable in the dog park environment really enjoy it. Unfortunately, I find that dog parents often forget the risks and tend to be a little too relaxed at dog parks. Distracted dog parents can miss signs of conflict, allow their dogs to bully other dogs, and fail to react when things escalate.
To me, the ugliest part of dog parks is that some pet parents are unfamiliar with the dangers, don't understand their dogs' body language, and allow them to stay in a stressful environment when they shouldn't. My heart always breaks when I hear that there was a dog fight, injury, or severe bite at a dog park because I believe these instances can usually be avoided if pet parents were more choosy about the dogs they bring to dog parks and vigilant while there.
New Bark Park in Yorktown: Tips
Unless you're confident that your dog will enjoy a dog park, I say avoid it. Or, try to visit during off-peak hours.
If you have a puppy over 4 months old, take your puppy early in the morning before other dogs arrive. That way, the risk of contracting illnesses or pests is reduced. And, be very cautious when introducing a senior dog to a dog park experience if it's been a while or they suffer from chronic pain. It may not be in their best interest.
Use a product like Wondercide before and after your visit to the dog park to ensure you don't bring home any fleas and ticks. And, carry a noise marker or air horn to help break up fights if needed. Finally, always trust your gut when you see something that doesn't seem right. If you get a bad feeling about a dog - or a human - grab your dog and go home!
New Bark Park in Yorktown:
The Alternative
Remember, dog walks are a great alternative to dog parks. We will come over and grab your dog(s) up while you work or run errands. We keep them on-leash and avoid unfamiliar dogs and people, Your dog(s) can enjoy nature and being outdoors without the added risk of a dog park. And, you won't have to do anything!
Hearts at Home Pet Sitting offers in-home dog walking and pet sitting services in Yorktown, Poquoson, Newport News, and Hampton, Virginia. To register your pet(s) or home with us, please complete a new client questionnaire here. Existing clients may request services here. Those outside our service area are encouraged to find a pet sitter near you at the Pet Sitters International or National Association of Professional Pet Sitters websites.
Please visit our website or contact us by email at Hello@HeartsAtHomePetSitting.com or by phone at 757-745-9868 to learn more. We look forward to exercising your dogs safely!
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