Dog Park Etiquette Beach Rules

Most of Maine’s dog-friendly beaches are peaceful places. So too are Maine’s dog parks.

This is mostly due to the fact that park and beach pet etiquette is well known, well publicized, usually well posted and encouraged by all throughout the state. The two most important things to remember are that these places are shared properties— and the goal when visiting is to have fun! Both require that you pay attention to your companion at all times, and that you get along with other pets and their owners.

• According to Maine statute, anyone who uses a dog park does so at his or her own risk. (This is true for any recreational area in Maine open to the public.) • Also according to Maine law, any damage or injury caused by a pet is the responsibility of the owner. • Disposing of your dog’s waste swiftly is a must! Some parks have disposable bags available; others do not. Always bring your own, just in case. • Dogs must be supervised at all times, even when they are off-leash. • When off-leash, dogs must still be under voice control.

• If your dog becomes aggressive or hyperactive or in some other way disruptive, it’s your responsibility to remove him or her from the park.

• Dogs must be leashed while entering or exiting the park. • Most parks require that dogs carry proper identification, license and rabies tags. • Female dogs in heat are typically prohibited from parks. Although tough to prohibit, “mounting” by dogs should be broken up immediately when it occurs. Some parks have sources of water for pets. Bring a bottle for your dog to be on the safe side. These same guidelines apply to Maine’s pet-friendly beaches. What’s most important at these sites is to observe regulations regarding when during the day and during the year dogs are allowed off-leash.

MAINE STATE PARK RULES:

Please observe the following rules when on state-controlled land such as the state parks. For more information, visit www. maine.gov/doc/parks/programs

• Pets must be on a leash not exceeding four feet in length and must not be left unattended.

• No pets are allowed on state park beaches.

• Pet owners must immediately clean up fecal deposits left by their pets. • No pets are allowed in Sebago Lake State Park Campground or Baxter

State Park.

THINGS TO REMEMBER AT THE BEACH:

1. Not all dogs can swim. Find some quiet water and give your dog a chance to show you if he can swim or not by encouraging him to follow you. 2. Drinking salt water is a bad idea. So, pack plenty of water to keep you both hydrated. 3. Invest in a life vest. Waves, current, and rip tides can quickly exhaust your dog, and that can be deadly. 4. Use sunscreen. Get a sunscreen specially formulated for dogs. 5. Beware of submerged dangers. 6. Don’t overdo it.