Dog Safety

Preventing Dog Bites

Dogs and children speak different languages, and play by different rules. For those reasons, I do not feel comfortable letting my children run around at dog parks, nor do I like seeing dogs run around at children's playgrounds. In a micro moment of miscommunication, disastrous consequences can result. Children cannot be expected to understand the implications of a bothered K9, so the responsibility of caution falls on your shoulders, Adults. 

Dog Owners

If your furry family member is accompanying you to a playground, keep him on a leash. If another child approaches your dog, thank them for seeking your permission first. Encourage them to keep their hands by their side while your dog greets (smells) them, and show them a non-threatening place to pet your dog - generally his back or shoulders. 

If your dog is at all nervous around strangers, place a yellow ribbon on his leash, and ask children to say hello from a distance. Children are an unacceptable means by which to socialize a jittery pup. 

Parents

When at a playground with your kids, survey the crowd for pets. Give your kiddos a clear explanation of dog safety, reminding them to stay clear of unleashed animals, and to ask for an owner's permission before greeting a leashed dog. Loud noises and quick actions will startle almost any dog, and even a calm dog must be treated with extra caution at a playground. Tell your children to keep their faces and hands away from a dog's head. 

Respect your pets, protect our children, get outside and enjoy this beautiful day!

More Resources:

Be a Tree

Help Prevent Dog Bites

Phil Long/Pat Bowlen Community Playground (a.k.a. Palmer Park)

The Phil Long/Pat Bowlen Playground located at the NW corner of Maizeland Rd. and Academy Blvd, is one of the largest playgrounds in the city. It is set within the Palmer Park boundaries and conveniently close to walking and hiking trails. It is bordered by sports fields and grassy, open areas ideal for large gatherings, and often draws a crowd. The playground has different areas designed for different ages and therefore an excellent spot for all kids. Older kids can often be found making good use of the challenge course portion of the playground (found at the western-most side), while the youngest children have an easy time managing the low-lying play structures on the eastern side. Because this site often draws a crowd, be prepared to use the eyes in the back of your head to keep track of your kiddos, if you have more than one. Now that mine are older, I find it is an excellent place to burn off some energy. It was not ideal, however, when I had a newborn with me, as the massive spread of the place required more scurrying than any postpartum mommy is in the mood for.


Specifics

Bathrooms are located at the central pavilion, but may be closed during the winter months (as stated on the city website).

The fall surfaces are made of wood chips and sand.

Many of the structures are made of wood. As is the case with any wooden playgrounds, be mindful of splinters.

Perhaps it is the proximity to walking trails that entices many people to bring their dog to this playground... Whatever the reason, there are often dogs here (some on leashes, some not). Simply be on the lookout and remind your children of the basics of dog safety.

Happy Meadows Park

If your children have ever read the book, seen the movie, or even heard of Charlotte's Web, then you must visit the Happy Meadows Park playground. It is nestled in the pristine Cordera neighborhood and built to tickle the imagination. Even though it is a lovely experience for children of all ages, it is built for older kids. Younger children (under 5 years old) will struggle to climb up into the barn structure, as there are no steps or small ladders. The pig and spider sculptures are fun to climb on, and the giant "spider's web" is a daring challenge. It can pose a danger to younger children who adamantly follow in big sister's or brother's footsteps. Keep a close eye on your littles.


Specifics

This playground is maintained exclusively by the residents of Cordera. While non-resident visitors are welcome, please be mindful to park along the playground curbs and away from mailboxes and private drives. 

A couple of metal picnic benches are located very nearby the play structures. Great for an afternoon snack. Trash cans are also available and prettily disguised (it makes a difference!).

There are no restroom facilities on site.

The fall surfaces are covered in wood chips beneath the barn, spider's web, sculptures, and swings.

The sidewalk surrounding the grassy field to the west of the playground is excellent for walking, biking, or scooter-ing.