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With the slow start we had to our spring in Portland, I spend the warm days as wisely as possible. Often, they lend themselves to a trip to the dog park with a friend or two. Not one to go unprepared—especially when it comes to my dog, Emerson—I bring a collection of essentials, such as waste bags, a water bowl, bottled water, his leash, a ball, and his vaccination records. In fact, I always carry them with me in my trunk just in case we go for an impromptu visit to the park. I find it much easier than packing up each time Emerson (or I) need our dog park fix. To find a dog park in your area, check out dogparkUSA.com.
A shy dog by nature, after a couple of trips to the dog park each spring, Emerson becomes more acclimated and social. Sometimes, he even plays with other dogs similar to his own size, or fetches the ball with me. It’s a great bonding experience for us, as well as a good chance for him to stay fit by exercising.
Even though he is fully vaccinated against such diseases as rabies and bordetella, I prefer to bring along my own supply of water for Emerson, along with a travel bowl. I’m always suspicious of what’s in the communal doggie water bowl at my local dog park. More than likely, I have nothing to worry about since Emerson is up to date on his vaccines. However, being that I lean on the side of neurotic (sometimes), I try to steer Emerson clear of the communal water bowl. Dogs can pick up diseases such as giardia from standing water, especially if other dogs have had recent access to it.