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As fall’s cool weather approaches, there’s no better time to take your canine companion outdoors to a dog park.

BREC’s five dog parks extend from Zachary to Mid City to Bluebonnet and even out toward Millerville Road, and BREC has more locations and enhancements on the way.

“For people who live in townhouses, apartments and other places with small backyard, these dog parks are a great place to let their dogs burn some energy off leash and to play with other dogs,” says Brandon Smith, BREC’s special facilities director.

But the dogs aren’t the only ones doing the socializing at the parks. BREC Special Facilities Area Supervisor Jason Hoggatt has noticed a group of regulars gathering at each dog park—making the parks fun for humans and canines alike.

Tips for enjoying Baton Rouge dog parks

Photo courtesy BREC

In addition to following safety rules, Smith and Hoggatt have some additional tips for people heading to Baton Rouge’s dog parks:

1. Keep your dog on a leash as you exit your car and again as you load up. City leash laws apply outside the fenced area. More importantly, even the best-trained dogs might dart into the path of car in the parking lot.

2. Once you and your dog are securely inside the park, take your dog off-leash. It’s dangerous to introduce a dog on-leash to a dog off-leash, according to many dog trainers. Like most animals, dogs have a flight or fight instinct. Since leashed dogs do not have the option to run away if they feel threatened, they will fight.

3. If the park has designated spaces for small and large dogs, bring your dog to the appropriate area. Even if your dog enjoys playing with canines of all sizes, the park presents an environment full of unknown people, dogs, sights and smells that can put your dog on sensory overload. Small dogs might be terrified by a huge unfamiliar animal rushing toward them, while large dogs might interpret the barking of a toy breed as easy prey.

4. Watch children carefully around unfamiliar dogs. Many children who grow up with dogs consider all canines to be four-footed friends. While many dogs are fine with kids, some dogs might mistake a small child with a high-pitched voice for another weird dog breed and begin to roughhouse.

5. Avoid bringing food—human or canine—to the dog park. Pavilions with tables and benches are intended to be a shady respite from the sun rather than a picnic spot. Bringing in human food or even dog treats is prohibited at dog parks. Dogs’ primeval instinct to compete for food can result in aggressive behavior.

6. Leave your dog’s toys at home. A ratty tennis ball or ripped stuffed animal might be Fideaux’s prize possession, and if you fling it into the field and another dog grabs it, there’s likely to be fight.

7. Know when to go. Just like people, dogs do not always get along with other dogs. If there seems to be a lot of conflict at the park one day, come back another day.

8. Watch for special events. BREC partners with Capital Area Animal Welfare Society and other rescue organizations for Yappy Hour and Tricks & Treats, an Oct. 24 Halloween celebration.

For more information, visit BREC’s website.

Creature feature

If you’re looking for a new pup to take to the dog park, Friends of the Animals Baton Rouge has many cuddly canines including:

Kevin is a 3-year-old blue merle Great Dane, weighing about 110 pounds. When Kevin first came to FOTA, this leg was X-rayed because he limped occasionally. Luckily, an orthopedist determined the problem can now be managed with anti-inflammatory medication and exercise. Despite the old injury, this sweet boy has a lot of energy. He craves time with people. He’s very attentive and easy to train. Kevin does well with children and other dogs. He would love to be part of an active family.

Wicket is a 3-month-old terrier mix. Besides being cute and cuddly, this super-sweet puppy has a low-shed, easy-care, wirehaired coat. Wicket currently weighs 11 pounds, and she’s loaded with playful puppy energy. If you have room in your heart and your home for darling pup, contact her foster family at 225-718-0516.

Aubrey is a 3-month-old female lab mix. Sweet, sensitive and absolutely irresistible, Aubrey is ready to bond with a caring owner. To meet this adorable puppy-on-the-grow, contact her foster home at [email protected].

Zane is a 6-month-old hound/terrier mix. Super-sweet and loving, Zane currently weighs a chunky 23 pounds. But who can blame him for indulging in a few too many snacks? When Zane arrived at a local shelter, he was sickly and hungry. His days seemed numbered because Zane had lost most of his fur due to mange and wasn’t likely to be adopted quickly. After a few weeks in a FOTA foster home, this bright, affectionate boy is now strong and on his way to a complete recovery. For information about this precious pup, contact Zane’s foster at [email protected].

Sandy “the Bearded Lady” has the cutest Fu Manchu her foster has ever seen. Unlike most terriers, this senior border terrier mix is very calm. She is content to follow any human from room to room and then settle in for a nap. Sandy loves everyone—adults, kids, cats and probably any other species of companion animal. To meet Sandy, email her foster at [email protected].

Violet is a 6-month-old spaniel terrier mix. This sweet, gentle puppy is hungry for love and affection. She also has the softest, silkiest coat that you’ve ever laid your hands on. This little lady is ready to bond with a caring owner. Like all young pups, Violet needs regular exercise, patient training and lots of attention. To meet this black-and-tan beauty, text her foster at 225-571-6575.

All these pets have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated, heartworm tested and microchipped. Many other adoptable dogs are available through Friends of the Animals.