Puppy Parks Now Open

Dog parks provide both the venue and the opportunity for dogs to get the vital exercise and socialization they need, which are two major factors in reducing behavioural issues.

Dr Susan Hazel, lecturer in animal behaviour, welfare and ethics at the University’s School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, based at the Roseworthy Campus, says the number of dog parks is growing every year and they are well-used around the world.

“Australia has one of the highest rates of dog ownership in the world with 36% of households owning a dog,” she says. “But as backyards have become smaller and leash laws enforced in many areas, it has become more difficult to exercise dogs safely off the leash while still keeping them under effective control.”

Dr Hazel also says that the off leash parks give great benefit to dog-owners as well.

“People have social contact while their dogs are playing and some groups of dog park users have even established Facebook sites.”

“We’ve observed that people get a lot out of using the parks too, not so much with their own exercise but just through the opportunity to meet other people with dogs.”

In North Lakes and Mango Hill there are three large off leash dog parks for you and your family to enjoy with your furry friend:

North Lakes – Woodside Playing Fields, Gardenia Parade, North Lakes – fully fenced, refillable water bowl, dog agility equipment, waste bag dispenser and seating.

North Lakes – Aurora Boulevard Park, Aurora Boulevard, North Lakes – fully fenced, refillable water bowl, dog agility equipment, waste bag dispenser and seating.

Mango Hill – Sunstone Circuit Park, Corner Sunstone and Bonnet Parade, Mango Hill – fully fenced, refillable water bowl, dog agility equipment, waste bag dispenser and seating.