If you are anything like me, your precious pup is most certainly part of the family. When people ask you how many children you have you typically answer with the number of humans but are quick to chime in with "and one fur-baby".
That's just what they are, our babies for life and just as important and cared for as our tiny humans. So it's no wonder why dog parks, or fenced in grassy areas dedicated specially to dogs, are popping up throughout the Hudson Valley.
A dog park is a safe place for dogs to play off a leash, something they are typically unable to do at a public park. Many parks offer water features, shaded areas, benches and even agility courses. Recommended by the ASPCA and other organizations, dog parks provide both owners and pets with a safe place for romping around, socialization and community building. It's not uncommon to hear tales of puppy play dates and doggie romances from the pup-playground.
Many of the dog parks in the Hudson Valley are built and run by volunteer community members. Each have their own set of rules and regulations, some with fees and some are free but any is a great place for your furry family member.
Take your pooch to the park at one of these great places:
Free and open to the public from 7am until dusk, the dog park at Thomas Bull Memorial Park features 1.5 acres of grass and rolling hills with divided areas for big and small pups. For 2-legged friends; benches, picnic tables, water fountains and a shaded structure provide a cool place to sit. 211 State Rt. 416, Montgomery.
A place where big and small dogs can be free to run safetly off leash. The park is adjacent to beauticul picnic pavilion and groomed hiking trails. 15 Muser Dr, Cornwall. 213-8650.
Beacon Dog Park
Open from dawn to dusk, this community sponsored park make doggie playdates easy with separated sections for small and larger dogs. Memberships can be purchased at The Beacon Barkery for a one- time annual fee. 195 Robert Cahill Dr., Beacon.
Created by community members with donations such as fencing, landscaping and pet waste station from local business, this popular dog park sits just behind town hall. The park includes a small dog area, shaded structure, water spigot and benches. 2340 Rt. 44/55, Gardiner.
Park is open for the season after March 1. Dogs must be licensed and live in Beekman. Small and Large dog parks are separated. 839 Beekman Rd, Hopewell Junction. 724-5300.
Safe, responsibly designed and well managed facility. Food and children under 12 are not allowed. Open dawn to dusk. Observe dog park rules. Adjacent to and bein the Softball fields, Kingston. 331-1682.
Large, adequately shaded and fenced in park for our furry friends. The park has a small water source for drinking and rumer has it a plastic pool in the summer time. Permit available online. Route 52 and Phillips Rd, Fishkill.
Two beautifully, fully fenced in dog parks off the beaten path tucked into the woods in Woodstock. The park also includes agility obstacles along with the natural woodsy terrain. To get there follow Dixon Rd., turn left at the baseball field. At the back of the parking lot your will find the trail that leads to the park. Rick Volz Property, Dixon Rd., Saugerties.
Beautiful community park for pets and their owners along the Catskill creek. Dog park offers agility course and picnic areas. 499 Main St, Catskill. 518-821-6712.
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