| Author |
Message |
    
beppolina
Citizen
Username: Beppolina
Post Number: 139
Registered: 3-2002
| | Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2006 - 9:56 am: | 
|
We'd been following the other thread for a while and couldn't wait for it to cool off (literally and figuratively) so we could take Dog One and Dog Two to the reservation for a look....
IT'S FABULOUS:
*The "gravel" surface is more like a pebbly beach. We have two small dogs, one of whom is lame (missing a paw) and the other is blind in one eye. They liked it just fine. We went this morning when it was still cool and shady. There's also sections that are mulched, and there's a little "island" of trees in the middle, so a nice variety of terrain.
*Segregating by size is a wonderful idea. We went fairly early this morning -- several big dogs in that section, just our guys in the small-dog section. A very tall fence that dogs can't easily see through separates most of the two sections from each other (there's tall fence all the way around, but part of the fence does allow the dogs to see each other although not get close enough to each other for big dog/little dog shout-offs).
*There are two gates to get in to each park, so you have time to get excited pups on/off leashes.
*"Time Out" fenced-off sections in each park, so you don't actually have to re-leash and leave the park completely if your dog just needs to calm down -- to sit and watch other dogs and have a little privacy. Dogs who are aggressive or miserable, of course, won't be calmed by the "time out" section and should be taken home.
*There's a long area with shaded benches between the Big Dog and Small Dog areas, so if you want to just come up and sit and watch the dogs (as people with dog-loving babies were already doing this morning), you can do so.
*Lots of poop bags & additional wastebaskets provided.
*The water fountain in the small dog area freaked out my dogs b/c the water bubbles up at exactly their nose level. But I'm sure they'll get used to it. Also, there are several fountains, so when lots of dogs are there they'll all get their chances.
*Dedicating the park to the rescue dogs of 9/11 (and in general) meant a lot to me....I was walking with a friend in the reservation that morning and we got the news from two women at the overlook, who pointed out the long trails of smoke drifting across the horizon.
*In the small-dog area, the agility obstacles are perfectly proportioned and very solidly built -- you can even adjust the rails (that dogs jump over). Not that Dog One and Dog Two will ever be up for agility trials, but they were quite pleased with themselves for figuring out the ramp.
Anyway.....Just wanted to start a more general-information thread about the dog park. I really appreciate all of the time, thought, and effort that obviously went into its planning and construction. (And since we don't have kids & don't use the local schools, there's a particular satisfaction in feeling like we're finally getting some direct benefit from our tax dollars!)
Hope to see y'all up there. |
Eric Wertheim
Citizen
Username: Bub
Post Number: 244
Registered: 1-2005
| | Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2006 - 4:47 pm: |
|
It's real nice. I think the gravel is too deep although perhaps it will settle and thin out as people clean up after dogs. Tennis balls, which my dog loves to chase, don't bounce, and running is harder for him.
I had been going to the similar county patk up in Bloomfield, where the gfravel is thinner and somewhat firmer. |
CJH
Citizen
Username: Christel
Post Number: 141
Registered: 1-2006
| | Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2006 - 6:34 pm: |
|
Thanks, I knew it was opening and kept meaning to ask how it is since our older dog used to go off leash in Brooklyn all the time and we miss having somewhere for him to run around (our yard isn't properly fenced yet). We can't wait to get over there, but our youngest won't get his rabies shot for another few weeks so we're waiting until everyone's up on their shots and ready to play. |
Oldstone
Citizen
Username: Rogers4317
Post Number: 832
Registered: 6-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2006 - 6:55 pm: |
|
barkpark (yes, that's the name of it) is GREAT except i have a feeling the mulched "islands" are going to turn into dog feces islands soon because unless you are right there with them when they scurry off to poop, it's a nightmare to find it because it blends in with the mulch color !!! bring your binoculars.
re: gravel...no big deal for the dogs AT ALL...much worse for me wearing sandles...GO IN SNEAKERS |
Alleygater
Citizen
Username: Alleygater
Post Number: 2412
Registered: 10-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 12:12 pm: |
|
Due the feceous pebbles, I WOULD HIGHLY recommend no sandals.
The park was nice. My pooches had fun and we will definitely be going back. All of the people we met there were quite friendly and the dogs were all well behaved. We went as the sun was going down to scope the place out, so we will have to go for a longer stay next time. Does anyone know if the back fence will ever open up and allow for the dogs to play in the really big grassy area behind the dog park? I know it's probably wishful thinking but it looks like that back area is almost completely fenced in too. As if they intended on fencing it in one day. Why put in the back gate then???
The water fountains. I couldn't get my dog to drink out of them. They make a hissing sound when they are on, and the bowls don't pool up UNLESS you hold down the button. So unless my dog gets over his fears I doubt he'll be using them. There is however a big faucet, which you can fill up your own containers. Someone left a big aluminum dog bowl there for the community already which I refilled with water and my dog used. I guess over time these will be scattered around the run.
I didn't see any dogs using the kiddy pool that someone left there but it's a cute idea. Although, your going to be bringing home one smelly wet dog home in your car the day your dog uses that pool. Good for the dog, not so sure how good it is for your car.
Oddly enough the area seems smaller than I imagined it was when I first saw it. I guess you stick in 6 dogs and 10 humans in one of the runs and it doesn't seem as monstrous. Also, your dog only uses half of the park due to the fenced in areas for different sized dogs. Also consider that the squared off corner when you enter and the big rock pile, and the 5 minute time out box. Also the usable space that is left over is sort of strewn with lots of obstacles and stuff. This isn't meant as a complaint, rather I was just surprised that my second impression was that it's not as big as I remembered it. Also, keep in mind that some days there will be 2 or 3 (who knows maybe even more) times the amount of dogs and humans there than when I saw the place. So I definitely think we could MAX out the space.
Overall, I really liked the place and will most certainly be going back. Not sure I like it more than Echo Lake however. |
eliz
Supporter
Username: Eliz
Post Number: 1638
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 12:57 pm: |
|
Alley - you obviously missed our pooch who discovered a penchant for the kiddie pool and hogged it for 45 minutes. We LOVED the Barkpark - I think they did an amazing job.  |
ncakes
Citizen
Username: Wbwallflower
Post Number: 332
Registered: 7-2005
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 1:58 pm: |
|
eliz- that's GREAT!  Planning on checking the barkpark out today.. can't wait! |
Alleygater
Citizen
Username: Alleygater
Post Number: 2413
Registered: 10-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 2:01 pm: |
|
Eliz, THAT is an adorable photo. My dog doesn't like water enough to do that. I have to bribe him to get in the bathtub and sit still for his baths.
Was I right about the mess and smell in the car? |
eliz
Supporter
Username: Eliz
Post Number: 1639
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 2:24 pm: |
|
No mess and smell in the car - the water is fresh and clean and the sun was so strong that even our super hairy dog dried in the sun in minutes. If it had been Echo Lake it would have been a mud disaster and that is why I appreciate the pebbles.
She is not one to seek out water so we were very surprised when she hopped in the pool and "chilled"! |
Bajou
Citizen
Username: Bajou
Post Number: 1481
Registered: 2-2006
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 4:14 pm: |
|
Hello all dog lovers:
Please see my post in the "help me section". Found 3 months old pure bred Jack Russel male pup. If you like terriers and you are looking then contact me at 973-508-8221.
Please view the link if you are not familiar with the breed as they are not a dog for everybody:
The good points:
http://www.terrier.com/breed/breedmenu.php3 BUT
Not a breed for everybody:
http://www.terrier.com/breed/baddog.php3
Do yourself a favor and try the Profiler to see if this breed is for you.
Please contact me at 973-508-8221 |
fabulouswalls
Citizen
Username: Fabulouswalls
Post Number: 189
Registered: 10-2005
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 4:49 pm: |
|
I took the pooch to the little doggy area today. She is shy around other dogs but she had fun. There were only 3 or 4 dogs there at the time. The big dog area was pretty busy and loud. |
Bajou
Citizen
Username: Bajou
Post Number: 1488
Registered: 2-2006
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 8:04 pm: |
|
Good news! Monty will be going with me to Annapolis to his new home with my friend the Vet. He will be a very happy clam there as he will be living at the Annapolis Navy Academy grounds which are huge and really pretty.
Thanks for all the interest shown and thanks to all the MOL people willing to help. |
Soparents
Supporter
Username: Soparents
Post Number: 2613
Registered: 5-2005
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 8:07 pm: |
|
So glad about that Bajou, he will have a very long and happy life with her. |
algebra2
Supporter
Username: Algebra2
Post Number: 4177
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 9:45 pm: |
|
We've gone just about every day. The dog park is great, even though it is full of dog people wanting to discuss dogs. My suggestion is even if YOUR dog doesn't poop EVERYONE should do their "doody" and clean up poop when they see it. I chuckled that at least 25 people walked right by a poop on the gravel near the entrance this afternoon, I am sure they all saw it cause all were careful not to step in it. |
CJH
Citizen
Username: Christel
Post Number: 143
Registered: 1-2006
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 11:03 pm: |
|
We couldn't stand the wait and took our one dog down today and will take the young guy when he's legit with his shots. It seems plenty spacious, though I guess I'm comparing them to runs in the city that can sometimes be little more than tiny fenced in spots, plus the small dog side we were on will almost always seem less crowded. I also like parks to not be too giant in size so people can keep a good eye on their dogs, clean up after them, and be close at hand if any trouble occurs.
In my experience the dog talk is generally a good ice breaker and as people get to be regulars, you morph into more everyday conversations about work, politics, the weather, whatever, though to some extent it's sort of like being at the regular playground, where conversation naturally turns back to kids all the time.
What's worse to me than the constant dog talk are the people who don't have the common sense to use the double gate system properly. I was only at the park for about half an hour, but in that time I saw more than one person leave the inner gate open when they entered, or worse, opened the outer gate on their way out before making sure the inner gate was shut behind them. Several dogs on the large side managed to make a break for it when one oblivious person wandered out with their dog on a leash and both gates open behind them, lucky the dogs were well trained and came when called or they might still be wandering the reservation.
Oh, and Oldstone is dead on: do not wear sandals unless you want to spend your whole time standing on one foot shaking pebbles out of them. |
Tea Kettle
Citizen
Username: Teacup
Post Number: 13
Registered: 7-2006
| | Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2006 - 11:12 pm: |
|
Where is the dog park? Based on what I've read, it seems like it may be in the old deer corral up off SO ave near before the S turns? Or is it someone else in the reservation? I'd rather know first than wonder around 3,000+ acres looking for a dog park. |
Bajou
Citizen
Username: Bajou
Post Number: 1498
Registered: 2-2006
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 12:18 am: |
|
Dear Tea:
That is exactely where it is. The old deer corral. |
ncakes
Citizen
Username: Wbwallflower
Post Number: 333
Registered: 7-2005
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 12:44 am: |
|
Went today and had a great time! Our little one liked the big dog area but had more fun running around by herself and sniffing things rather than playing with the other dogs and using the course. All in all, we were very pleased with everything and can't wait to go back!  |
Oldstone
Citizen
Username: Rogers4317
Post Number: 838
Registered: 6-2004
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 7:29 am: |
|
alg, not for nothing, but why didn't you pick up the poop you saw 25 people walk by? and what on earth would you expect people with their beloved dogs in a facility FOR dogs and something in common with others there talk about? would you like to engage in a conversation about politics when you are supposed to be keeping an eye on your dog the whole time he is there?
"The dog park is great, EVEN THOUGH it is full of dog people wanting to discuss dogs." that's a good one.
|
algebra2
Supporter
Username: Algebra2
Post Number: 4179
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 9:29 am: |
|
Oldstone -- I DID pick up the poop. I walked in and saw the poop by the entrance. Followed my dog to the back and my son and I played with her. While back there I filled a bag with poop (other people's) and on my way out I picked up the poop by the door.
Sorry, but I don't think it's loads of fun to stand around chatting about dog behavior -- I'd rather read a book or spend my time picking up poop. |
Debby
Citizen
Username: Debby
Post Number: 2361
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 9:58 am: |
|
 |
Debby
Citizen
Username: Debby
Post Number: 2362
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 9:58 am: |
|
|
algebra2
Supporter
Username: Algebra2
Post Number: 4180
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 10:01 am: |
|
Debby -- Happy belated birthday. Did you know your house sold again? |
Flameretardant
Citizen
Username: Flameretardant
Post Number: 25
Registered: 9-2004
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 10:02 am: |
|
For what it's worth, I've been to the Barkpark several times since it's opened, and have yet to see people being so careless about their own dog's poop or ignoring that of other dogs. Also, I agree that sometimes enthusiastic dog owners can talk too much about their pooches - just as enthusiastic parents can. As a dog owner but not a parent, I'd much rather talk about the tricks my dog can do than the color of feces in some toddler's diaper (a conversation I endured not too long ago). Fortunately for me - and for people who don't want to discuss dogs - there's a simple solution available to all of us: politely excuse ourselves and leave the conversation. |
Debby
Citizen
Username: Debby
Post Number: 2364
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 10:14 am: |
|
Thanks! Wow - that was fast. PL me the dirt. |
Judi W.
Citizen
Username: Judiwein
Post Number: 48
Registered: 7-2005
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 3:34 pm: |
|
What's the weight differentiation between the large and small dog areas? My dogs are about 40 lbs - large or small? Can someone provide directions please - I'm not familiar with the old deer corral. Can't wait to try it!!! |
fabulouswalls
Citizen
Username: Fabulouswalls
Post Number: 191
Registered: 10-2005
| | Posted on Monday, August 7, 2006 - 4:34 pm: |
|
It is not by weight. My guess is a 40lb dog would be a large dog. I did see some Dachsunds in with the big dogs yesterday and they did fine. So while you could put a little dog with the big ones you probably shouldn't put the big dogs in with the little ones.
To get there take Wyoming Ave. to South Orange Ave., Make a left on South Orange Ave., Go up to the top of the hill just past the two condo buildings and make a left into the reservation. Go as far as you can and make a right into the barking lot. |
Katharine McCormick
Citizen
Username: Katiemcc
Post Number: 9
Registered: 2-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 8, 2006 - 7:26 pm: |
|
Question for all of you who've been to the Bark Park: How late do people bring their dogs there? I have a dog who LOVES socializing and I'd love to bring him by after work, but the earliest I could reasonably get there is 7:30. Would there be other dogs for him to play with at that time? |
Oldstone
Citizen
Username: Rogers4317
Post Number: 867
Registered: 6-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, August 13, 2006 - 9:31 am: |
|
For those of you that don't understand how the double gates work at the entrance into the runs:
One owner with his dog or dogs goes in ALONE, shuts the outer gate behind him, unleashes his dog and lets him into the run through the inner gate and then shuts it. THEN AND ONLY THEN, the next dog owner can come in...ALONE.
It can be a very dangerous and ANNOYING situation to do otherwise. PLEASE adhere to the above protocol for a more pleasant, stress-free dog run experience !!!! |
ffof
Citizen
Username: Ffof
Post Number: 4826
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Sunday, August 13, 2006 - 11:15 am: |
|
THis morning there was someone there with a dog who was not good at socializing. He really was quite aggressive and it was obnoxious. THe owner would put him on a leash to get him out of a situation, but then let him off again. He behaved well on a leash, and bad off-leash. He wasn't bothering my dog, but it was annoying (he was aggressive towards some dogs and it made other dogs start to bark incesantly) and I left. I wish I had said something, but believe it or not, I'm not very confrontational in real life
Also, my dog behaves weird there. He'll play catch but not with the focus he normally does. I noticed him spitting out the pebbles when they would stick to his tennis ball!
Anyway, I still like to go up there. I think it's just hit or miss with whatever other dogs are there. |
Alleygater
Citizen
Username: Alleygater
Post Number: 2451
Registered: 10-2004
| | Posted on Monday, August 14, 2006 - 10:20 am: |
|
ffof: having gone to Echo Lake VERY many times, I can tell you that there are a bunch of odd people in the world and some of them show up to dog parks. It's a risk you run by leaving your home. And while I think it is acceptable to talk to complete strangers at dog parks and ask them to participate by the worlds rules, not everyone will. And not everyone will be pleasant to deal with. I know a couple of "regulars" that I avoid at Echo Lake, because I don't like their style. For one reason or another they have acted in such a manner that I know to steer clear of them and their dogs. Luckily Echo Lake is big enough that with a small amount of effort avoidance can be achieved. BarkPark isn't as large but I suspect it would be possible to avoid the few INEVITABLE bad apples. And trust me we all will have a few "bad" stories to tell about the dog run. If you go reguarly, I can promise you of that. I have yet to see a serious dog fight in the Reservation, but I know it's inevitable too. And none of this means that the Park is a bad place -- it's all very natural (IMO). Just remember that you are supposed to be supervising your dog at all times when you are there, and be prepared for the worst (be that from a human or a dog). And good luck talking to strangers, you never know what the other person might say or how they will respond. |
Alleygater
Citizen
Username: Alleygater
Post Number: 2452
Registered: 10-2004
| | Posted on Monday, August 14, 2006 - 10:25 am: |
|
Oh shoot, I was so concentrating on doing my sermon, that I forgot to mention that I went AGAIN to the park twice this weekend. My dog loved it. I had a great time, the dog had a great time. I met some very friendly people. Still haven't found any ticks on me or the dog. I'm very pleased. Still loving the dog park.
I still haven't bumped into anyone (knowingly) from MOL however. Every time I see a greyhound, I think, oh I wonder if Tom or mem are here. But alas... |
Tom Reingold
Supporter
Username: Noglider
Post Number: 15299
Registered: 1-2003
| | Posted on Monday, August 14, 2006 - 11:21 am: |
|
We're demolishing our kitchen, so I haven't had time to visit Bark Park yet. That's right. I haven't been there once yet.
And my muscles are sore!
|
Alleygater
Citizen
Username: Alleygater
Post Number: 2457
Registered: 10-2004
| | Posted on Monday, August 14, 2006 - 12:36 pm: |
|
We need to do our kitchen AND FAST. Tom with your expertise, are you available for some extra work after your done with yours can you help us with ours?  |
cmontyburns
Citizen
Username: Cmontyburns
Post Number: 1955
Registered: 12-2003
| | Posted on Monday, August 14, 2006 - 1:07 pm: |
|
My dogs are available for demolition work. When they're not at the Bark Park, that is.
|
ncakes
Citizen
Username: Wbwallflower
Post Number: 343
Registered: 7-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, August 17, 2006 - 9:28 pm: |
|
Can't get enough of the barkpark! Spent at least two hours there after work today. So many great people and dogs.. yay! |
Closed: New threads not accepted on this page