Fitfields

from SCRPA Magazine - Fall 2020

South Carolina Dog Parks

provided with off-leash vigorous and strenuous exercise,” said Sarver. “Their athletic ability makes them an excellent personal exercise partner.” Dog parks and agility courses encourage a healthy, active lifestyle. There are multiple benefits of vigorous outdoor play including exercise, physical and mental stimulation while interacting and connecting with a pet. When designing a dog park or agility course, Sarver says careful health and wellness elements must be put in place to create a space that will help develop a healthy dog and healthy dog owner: • Agility training options • Vigorous exercise spaces • Climbing challenges • Cognitive learning modules • Social play opportunities • Areas for bonding and disciplined fun “Dog parks should be designed to be fun, safe and efficient – a plan can be done to incorporate elements into any open space. There are scientific methods to create spaces that get maximum exercise results for dogs at a healthy pace,” explained Sarver. When developing a course, it’s important to research and source equipment that will not only improve a dog’s quality of life, but also feels natural and is safe. “When designing a park, I try to use natural and sustainable products as much as possible. Trees offer the best shade resource. I also believe in using natural and sustainable products as much as possible, such as the use of natural organic mulch as a ground surface,” said Sarver. Many dog park site furnishings are being designed to replicate natural elements. Realistic looking logs, boulders, stumps and boards made out of sustainable materials can all benefit the environment. Agility equipment is growing in popularity for new dog parks and can be designed to fit any area depending on the size of the park. Popular products are scalable and adjustable, including jumps, beam, hurdles, ramps and waiting tables. Speed challenges are also widely used for their adjustability, items such as hoops, weave poles, tunnels, barrels and agility walking beams.

All photos courtesy of Gyms for Dogs ®

“When sourcing products for your park, it is important to make sure you have a balanced variety of equipment for dogs of all sizes and age groups. Older dogs love the experience of going to the park but may not be able to use the more vigorous products, so make sure you have some products for all dogs. It is also important to provide adequate shade and drinking water options”, said Sarver As we move into the close of 2020, there are many things still out of the our control, but one thing is guaranteed – pets will continue to bring joy to the lives of millions of people. Creating a place that provides both the physical and mental stimulation for them (and their human companions) has never been more important.

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