Sycamore Bark Park
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Benefits of an Off-Leash Park


To the Dog!

õ Exercise reduces boredom and allows the dog to burn off pent-up energy, especially those living in apartments, dogs who have small yards, and dogs who are left at home for long periods of time. Any trainer will tell you that, “a tired dog is a good dog.”
õ Socializing with other dogs’ without the tension of the leash allows them to react to each other more naturally, thus promoting desirable dog behavior.  Leashes interfere with the natural body language of the dog and become tangled up in play.  Studies show that when dogs are allowed time off-leash, they tend to be more sociable towards people and other dogs, less aggressive, and bark and bite less than dogs that get no time off-leash.  In addition, since the park provides opportunities for encounters with a variety of people and dogs, the dogs become more at ease in general.

To the Human!

õ Encourages owner to get out and exercise, thus promoting physical and mental health.
õ A well-adjusted, less aggressive dog is more enjoyable and easier to handle for the owner.
õ This park facilitates friendly social interaction between people.  The love people share for their dogs reaches beyond economic and social barriers and helps to foster a sense of community.  It also provides the opportunity for owners to network about issues regarding their pets, and provides elderly and disabled owners with an accessible place to socialize and exercise their companions.
õ An off-leash dog park allows people to have the pleasure of watching their dogs at play as well as giving people who are unable to own a dog their “dog-fix.”

To the Community!

õ Off-leash dog parks provide socialization and exercise opportunities, thus resulting in less aggressive dogs and reducing the risks of dog attacks.  Also, well-exercised dogs are less likely to create a nuisance by barking excessively or destroying property.
õ The community-building that takes place at off-leash areas results in more cohesive neighborhoods, more local involvement in municipal affairs, and a heightened sense of connectedness and community.
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By their presence, groups of dog owners help to deter crime and frequently act as the eyes and ears for police.  Enclosed play areas for dogs keep them from infringing upon the rights of other community residents and park users such as joggers, small children, and those who may be fearful of dogs.  Lastly, happier, healthier and calmer dogs make better neighbors.
õ Dog parks help to encourage dog licensing, dog training, and keeping current on vaccinations.