Exposing the downside of dog parks

Harry Truman said, "If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog." But what if it's your dog that wants a friend? Take him to the dog park, right?

One of the greatest myths about dog parks is that they are ground zero for the socialization of dogs. But the proper socialization of a dog requires a highly structured environment, something a dog park is far from. Just imagine a playground full of children ages 3 months to 15 years, with rules posted on a sign, but no one responsible for enforcing them. Scary, isn't it?

The reality of dog parks is that they are fenced-in areas that allow for the unsupervised mingling of dogs of all ages, sizes, temperaments and obedience levels. They are frequently carpeted in feces, as people enter the dog zone and surreptitiously break from the good habit of picking up after their pooch. They contribute to the spread of disease as a result of the unclean grounds and the willy-nilly union of healthy and unhealthy dogs. And they often serve as an arena for impromptu dogfights.

As is probably obvious by now, I am not a fan. But don't take my word for it; consider this recent letter from a reader:

"I read your column frequently and am always gratified to hear your advice for owners of dogs who are already aggressive. I often go to the park with my dog, Maya, who always minds me. But there is inevitably a person there with an aggressive dog. I can't tell you how many times an owner like that has laughed and said, 'Oh, he just thinks he's tough' or 'He's not being aggressive, he's just playing rough' after their dog has bitten or even taken down my dog."

This is why schools group kids in classrooms according to age, development and learning ability.

This is why children, in order to attend public schools, have to show proof of vaccination from certain diseases that would otherwise spread like wildfire.

This is why kennels separate some dogs from others and require proof of current shots for all dogs.

This is why both kennels and schools have someone present and in charge of enforcing the rules.

I recently asked a woman why she takes her dog to the dog park, and she explained that she wants her dog to have friends. Her son interjected and said, "Mom, you go there to gossip with your friends." Kids really do say the darnedest things, don't they? But he's right: Most of the socializing that goes on at dog parks takes place between dog owners. People see it more as a chance to catch up with their friends than to play catch with their dog. Some are looking for love; still others will settle for free dog sitting.