Parks for Barks

Before Barksdale came into our life, John and I used to imagine the fun times we would someday have taking our imaginary pooch to a dog park. Our home in Arlington was located right near a huge dog park situated on a river, and we'd often walk by it and see dogs gallivanting around and swimming to their hearts content.

However, after we brought Barksdale home and tried the dog park a few times, the three of us decided that we just weren't really the "dog park" type.  We found that too many of the dogs and their owners we would encounter weren't particularly "balanced", which often could lead to humping, barking, and the occasional fight. And since this dog park in particular was so popular, there were often hoards of dogs roaming around -- forming their own squirrel-hunting packs and picking on the new guys.


Since moving to Savannah, our position on dog parks hasn't changed a great deal. But, in case we ever decide to give it another try, we are lucky enough to have a couple of nice options:


#1. Starland Dog Park: 




Also known as "The Savannah Dog Park," this nice-sized park is located on 41st and Drayton Street in the middle of the Starland District (which, is itself, an awesome little area...Back in the Day Bakery, anyone?!). There is a good amount of shade at this park and lots of big Adirondack chairs for dog owners to hang out in. The only catch is that you must become a member of Dog Park Association to bring your pup into this park, but the information about how to join is posted clearly at the park's entrance.

#2. Beasley Dog Park: 

Located on East Broad Street in downtown Savannah, this dog park is adjacent to a huge athletic field and is itself very large. We have not taken BD to this park yet, so I can't speak to it one way or the other. But they do have their very own blog, which is cool and it looks like there is a strong community of dog enthusiasts involved. And the coolest part is that it is named after Savannah's first black nun, Mathilda Beasley. 

#3. Tybee Bark Park:


Although Tybee Island isn't the most dog-friendly place I've ever been, they do have a pretty nice dog park. It's covered in cedar chips, which helps to eliminate dust in the area and its also nicely shaded, which is key in the hot Savannah summers. It's located at Van Horne Street and Fort Street, right next to the Police Station. For that reason, make sure you have quarters to feed the meter if you go during the week! 

Wherever you decide to take your pup for some fun, make sure that you are a responsible owner and take good care to watch your dog's behavior in the park. My own personal dog guru, Cesar Millan, offers some great advice for having a safe and happy time at dog parks here.

Have fun!