Many cities are beginning to have dog parks, which ususally consist of a grassy fenced in area where you can go and let your dogs run "off leash". More upscale ones even have agility courses....

The Hagerstown parks have just now started letting people bring dogs on a leash, but only around the perimeter of the park. It is clear that many dog-owners are looking for a public place (other than PetSmart!) to exercise thier dogs.

I would be very interested in connecting with other dog owners to try and find a suitable facility for a dog park.

A good site with great information on starting one is here:
Dogpark.com

Has anyone from this forum ever been to (or wished for) a Dog Park?

I think it's a great idea! I'd love to have a place where my dog can run & play with others! I'll check out the site and get back with you

I `ve been to a dog park in Floroda. The pens were very nice and clean.
They even had a shower for the dogs if they got dirty. The pens were 100ft. X50ft. x6ft high. I1ve been thinking on going to the city council meeting a suggesting this.

Almost every French park has one of these dog parks. I saw a special on them on French television about how great they are for the dogs and their owners.

They seem to be a good idea and they also keep the parks cleaner (poo only in the dog park).

France is still different because dogs wander leashless all over without any enforced restrictions.

I'm all for this, especially at parks with athletic fields...

There's nothing like stepping on a fresh pile of crap
while you're running after a fly ball...

Great idea. I'd love to take my pooch to a real dog park.

BUT, I have no doubt in my mind that there are enough inconsiderate people in this area that would ruin it by not cleaning up after their dog or not being able to keep control of it.

My dog would love France!

They have atleast 2 in NYC; not that I've been there, but I saw it on The Apprentice! One of the teams set up a dog-wash at one, the other tried to offer pet photos at another!

Yeah I think it would be a great idea. They could fund it with all the money they collect on Pet License or could be a "fee" park and charge admission to get in.

There's one in Annapolis.

I agree with Sman... there are too many people around here who don't understand the meaning of "pooper scooper."