Are your furry friends needing a change of scenery after being cooped up indoors all winter? Fortunately, South Africa has no shortage of dog parks, the perfect places for your pooches to shake off the chilly vestiges of cabin fever and have fun in the sun.
Of course, as a dog owner, you might be concerned about the safety and welfare of your canine being in a dog park with other pups who may be poorly socialised. There’s also a risk of your dog picking up a parasite or a disease.
Luckily, says Vetster, the benefits of visiting dog parks are worth “paw-sing” for thought: there, your dog can improve their social skills, boost their physical and mental health through play, and it gives you and your four-legged friend a great opportunity to bond with each other.
VISIT THESE DOG PARKS FOR A TAIL-WAGGINGLY GOOD TIME
All in all, these parks enable your dog to live a happier, healthier lifestyle!
So, with your dog by your side, here are seven dog parks in South Africa that you should visit:
1. GREEN POINT PARK, CAPE TOWN
A wide expanse of greenery located near the foot of Signal Hill and close to the Atlantic Ocean, Green Point Park is the ideal place for your pooch to breathe in that fresh, salty air, socialise with other dogs, and get in some good mileage with a ball or frisbee.
Take note: dogs must be leashed at all times and are not allowed to set paws in the Biodiversity Showcase Garden.
2. LEADVILLE DOG PARK, CAPE TOWN
At Leadville Dog Park in Cape Town’s Sunningdale suburb, your dog is treated like royalty. Not only can they run off-leash once inside the premises, but you can also buy them toys and treat them to a grooming session from the park’s on-the-spot shop and parlour, respectively. You, too, can unwind at the on-site coffee shop while your fur child is adventuring.
Dogs under the age of four months will not be admitted.
3. WALKHAVEN DOG PARK, JOHANNESBURG
As its name suggests, this Joburg-based dog park – a scenic sprawl of rolling grassland – is a haven for your fur child. Whether it’s swimming in the dam, exploring the various walking trails or joining you as a lunchtime companion at the on-site restaurant, your dog will feel at home at Walkhaven.
While they are allowed off-leash, you still need to keep a sharp eye on your pup in case they wander off too far or meet an ill-tempered canine.
4. VERITY PARK, JOHANNESBURG
Located in Parkhurst – or “Barkhurst”, as affectionately coined by the residents – Verity Park is an open patch of greenery and tranquillity. Here, your fluffball can trot about freely, roll around on the cool grass and socialise with the other neighbourhood doggos while you take a breather on the benches.
Keep in mind that the children’s play area is off-limits to dogs, so be sure to leash them up before they roam too close!
5. WESTVILLE PARK, DURBAN
If you reside in Westville, Durban, then Westville Park will prove “paw-some” for you and your dog. Surrounded by forest and wetlands, it’s a park that has plenty of spots for your pooch to explore and more than enough space to stretch their legs.
Remember, though, it’s a public park; while well-behaved dogs are allowed off leash, it’s advised to leash them up when they’re near the children’s play area.
6. DUNCAN DOG PARK, DURBAN
Nearly six kilometres away from Westville Park is Duncan Dog Park, which prides itself on being a dedicated space for all dogs. A lush space defined by its emerald-green foliage, your canine can run freely among the tall grass, trees and bushes.
Dogs and dog-owners alike are encouraged to socialise with each other and enjoy the sense of serenity that the park creates. Again, just use your discretion if either dog doesn’t get along well.
7. SARDS BARK PARK, GQEBERHA
Sards Bark Park in Lovemore Park, Gqeberha, is where dogs can truly be themselves. Here, in this enclosed, picturesque valley, they are encouraged to run off-leash, where they can interact with other doggos and play to their hearts’ content.
However, you need to be a member to enter the park; a payment of R100 is required for the registration fee. Bookings are made online.
AVOID MAKING A ‘FAUX-PAW’ AT THE DOG PARK
These dog parks, among others, are well worth the visit, as they can be fun and revitalising for your fur child. As such, you should always keep these tips in mind for a successful visit:
- Familiarise yourself with the dog park’s rules.
- Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.
- Supervise your dog at all times, especially if they are off-leash.
- Clean up after your dog when they make a mess.
- Pack enough water and dog treats.
- Watch closely how your dog and other dogs interact with each other.
- If your dog shows signs of stress, such as trembling or raised hackles, leave the park.
HAVE YOU EVER VISITED A DOG PARK IN SOUTH AFRICA?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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