A GUIDE TO THE SURROUNDING DOG PARKS

Here in Newstead we are so lucky to be surrounded by an abundance of dog parks, making it easy to socialise and exercise our fluffiest members of the family, our dogs.

Although dog parks can be a fun place for you and your dog, there are a few etiquette rules to help keep your pet and others safe.

Staying up to date with your pet's vaccine schedule is an excellent way to ensure that your pet is protected from diseases including: canine distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and bordatella.  Preventatives for heartworm, flea, tick and intestinal worms are another effective measure to ensure that your pet can interact with others dogs without putting their health at risk.

COMMON DOG PARK PARASITES + INFECTIONS

Some parasites + disease that are present at dog parks may include:

• Fleas
• Ticks
• Intestinal Worms
• Giardia
• Coccidia
• Kennel Cough

Fleas

Fleas can cause an intense itching sensation which can lead to a condition called Flea Allergy Dermatitis or even anaemia in more severe cases. Fleas are mainly spread through the environment, making it critical to protect your pet using prevention when going to the dog park.

Ticks 

There are several types of ticks including: the paralysis tick, brown dog tick and the bush tick which are common in the Brisbane area. The paralysis  tick is the most severe type as it excretes a deadly toxin that can be fatal if not caught or prevented. Signs that a dog has a paralysis tick is ataxia (decrease in co-ordination and movement), vomiting, lethargy, rapid breathing, loss of appetite, coughing and/or retching. If your dog is showing any of these signs immediately seek veterinary assistance. The brown dog tick and the bush tick is not as fatal as the paralysis tick but can act as carriers for other diseases that can be harmful or fatal to your dog if left untreated.

Intestinal Worms

Intestinal worms include: roundworm, tapeworm, whipworm and hookworm. These worms can be transmitted through the environment, making it so important to have your dog’s worming up to date then going to the dog park. Don't forget that a lot of worms can be transmitted to people too - so don't forget to wear shoes and wash your hands.

Giardia

Giardia is a parasite that can cause diarrhoea in your dog. It is transmitted by through the environment and mainly through stagnated water. By seeking clean water sources at parks or bringing you own bowl for your dog to drink out of it can decrease the risk of catching Giardia. Eliminating animal faces can also helpful, so be sure to clean up after your dog at the dog park.

Coccidia

Coccidia is an infection that causes diarrhoea and in some cases liver problems. It is transmitted through the environment making animal’s at dog parks susceptible. Coccidia can be prevented in a very similar manner to Giardia by seeking clean water, bringing your own dog bowl and picking up after your dog.

Kennel Cough

Kennel Cough is a condition that is highly infectious. It is an airborne infection, so it is very important that if your dog is showing any signs of coughing, or retching that you don't go to the dog park as it can easily be spread. Kennel cough is covered by the C5 vaccination which can be invaluable to help protect your dog.

Now that we have covered all the nasty stuff, please don't let these things deter you from dog parks. It is good to be aware and stay vigilant for any warning signs but dog parks are there to be enjoyed so don't be afraid to go outside and explore the dog parks in your area!

SURROUNDING DOG PARK SUMMARIES

Some dog parks that are within 5km of Newstead Vets include:

• Newstead Dog Park - 700m
• Albion Dog Park - 1.2km
• Hercules Street Hamilton Dog Park - 2.8km
• Windsor Dog Park - 3.4km
• Kedron Brook Dog Park Lutwyche - 4.6km
• New Farm Dog Park - 4.8km

Newstead Dog Park

The Newstead Dog Park is a fully fenced space that has water available for dogs and seating. This dog park is located in proximity to the river walk, making it a nice walk to and from the dog park.

Albion Dog Park

Albion Dog Park features multiple penned areas to enable similar sized dogs to interact in different spaces and to not overwhelm dogs with too many other pets in the same area. The park also offers water in all pens.

Hamilton Dog Park

The Hamilton dog park is a newly established fully grassed fenced dog park that is quite modern. It includes lighting if you prefer to go to the dog park in the evenings or early mornings, along with seating. It also has a shaded area if you are going during the day, poo bins, water, and an obstacle in the middle of the field for dogs to jump up onto.

Windsor Dog Park

This dog park offers wide open spaces and is great for the more active breeds that need a lot of space to run. Windsor Dog Park also has shade and chairs to rest if needed.

Kedron Brook Dog Park

The Kedron Brook Dog Park is an off the leash unfenced dog park, that has wide open spaces for your dog to run around. It features a brook running through (that is discouraged for swimming in by the council), along with water for dogs available, seating and shade.

New Farm Dog Park

The New Farm dog park is a fully fenced facility that offers two separate areas to keep larger and smaller dogs separate. It includes lighting for night-time or early mornings, water available for people and dogs, seating, and shade. It also features a coffee shop right beside it and river views (which makes it our staff pick of the dog parks!).

From all the team at Newstead Vets, happy dog parking!