Rudy's FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the Rudy's Dog Park rules?
You can find the rules in our Membership Packet.
Who operates Rudy's Dog Park?
The Board of Directors makes decisions for the park.
Can people or dogs get hurt at Rudy's?
Yes. Unfortunately, dogs can cause serious injury to people and other dogs. They are dogs and do not always act in ways we understand. That is why everyone should act responsibly with their dog and respect the rights of other people and dogs. Familiarizing yourself with the dog park rules are a good first step to a safe dog park experience.
How can I avoid a dog fight?
Prevent a dog fight before it happens: Learn the 4P Warning Signs
What should I do if a dog fight occurs?
An injured dog may bite anyone near by. A dog fight can be violent and is upsetting to everyone present.
What if I see someone break the Rudy's Dog Park rules?
Rudy’s Dog Park was established on the concept that dog owners would police themselves and each other. If you see someone who forgets the rules (i.e., forgets to pick up poop) politely introduce yourself, remind them of the rule, and thank them when they comply with the rule.
Can I bring water into Rudy's Dog Park?
At this time we have no water source so you must bring water to the park. We ask that if able each member bring extra to share in the event someone forgot theirs. We do have bowls at the park but another good thing to bring.
Does my dog have to have a current rabies shot to come to Rudy's Dog Park?
Yes.
Can my newborn puppy come to Rudy's Dog Park?
No. Dogs must be at least 4 months old and be fully vaccinated.
What should I do about an aggressive dog?
First, remove your dog from the situation. Second, (if it is safe) politely tell the dog’s owner that you feel their dog is aggressive and ask them to take some action to control their dog or leave the park. If you do not feel safe or a polite request has no effect then you may contact the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department at 574-267-5667
What should I do if someone is bitten at Rudy's Dog Park?
Dog bites are rare at dog parks, especially if all users follow the rules and respect other people and dogs. But if someone is bitten:
Should I bring my dog to the park when it’s really hot?
Because of the danger of heat stroke, we warn against extended use of the park during the heat of the day. Always bring plenty of fresh clean water any time you use the park.
What should I do if I suspect my dog has heat stroke?
Signs of heat stroke are intense, rapid panting, wide eyes, salivating, staggering and weakness. Advanced heat stroke victims will collapse and become unconscious. The gums will appear pale and dry. Any temperature above 105 degrees is dangerous. The longer the temperature remains at or above 105 degrees the more serious the situation.
If you suspect your dog has heat stroke, place him/her in a tub of cool running water or spray with a hose, being sure the cool water contacts the skin and doesn’t simply run off the coat. Thoroughly wet the belly and inside the legs. Run the cool water over the tongue and mouth. Take a rectal temperature if possible to know when to stop cooling. A safe temperature is about 103 degrees. Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Where can I learn more about preparing for a visit to the dog park and dog park safety?
Check out this great article, “Off the Leash: Dog Park Fun And Safety,” by Brian Davidson, published on GoodDogz.org, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to educating potential dog owners on dog selection and care and supporting the efforts of rescue groups.
The San Francisco Chronicle has a story about the perils of mixing small dogs and big dogs in the same park: “In dog parks, size matters; small-pooch crowd fights for turf away from bigger barkers.”
Why do I have to pay (become a member) to use the park?
The park receives no financial or maintenance support from the city, county or state. Membership dues are used to maintain and improve the park along with monies generated through fundraising efforts and donations.
Why does my dog have to have proof of current vaccines, negative heartworm test results and negative intestinal parasite test results?
To insure that dogs using the park are protected as much as possible from the transmission of contagious disease and to protect humans from zoonotic disease.
Why are children under 4 feet tall not permitted in the park?
Dogs at play can easily run into and /or knock over a small child potentially causing injury to the child.
Why is membership per calendar year rather than a year from the date I become a member?
At this time we must use a key entry system (we are working on electronic entry as a future improvement) and the locks are changed and new keys are changed after the first of the year. (Needs updated to reflect the current “why”)
You can find the rules in our Membership Packet.
Who operates Rudy's Dog Park?
The Board of Directors makes decisions for the park.
Can people or dogs get hurt at Rudy's?
Yes. Unfortunately, dogs can cause serious injury to people and other dogs. They are dogs and do not always act in ways we understand. That is why everyone should act responsibly with their dog and respect the rights of other people and dogs. Familiarizing yourself with the dog park rules are a good first step to a safe dog park experience.
How can I avoid a dog fight?
Prevent a dog fight before it happens: Learn the 4P Warning Signs
- Posture: A dog’s body language can communicate fear, hostility or submission. Learn to read and respond to your own dog’s body language, and others.
- Packing: More than 2 or 3 dogs packed together can lead to trouble. Break it up before it starts by leading your dog to a neutral area at least 30 feet away.
- Possession: Whether it’s you, a ball, or a treat, most dogs will protect what is theirs. Remain aware.
- Provoking: If your dog is continuously annoying another dog or dogs, or provoking attention, it’s time to leave the park.
What should I do if a dog fight occurs?
An injured dog may bite anyone near by. A dog fight can be violent and is upsetting to everyone present.
- Keep calm. Even the calmest, most pleasant, well-adjusted person may become upset, angry or belligerent, if they or their dog is injured in a fight. Emotional behavior is automatic; try to remain calm and as objective as possible. Never reach your hands into the middle of a dog fight. You may get bitten, and often by your own dog.
- Distract the dogs and divert their attention. A blast of water from a water bottle, a loud whistle, or a pocket air horn may work.
- If your dog is not in the fight, make sure he does not join in.
- If a fight occurs, control your dog and remove him to a neutral area.
- Maintain a cool head. Getting upset and yelling will only add to the frenzy.
- When warranted, exchange contact information with the other dog owners. If you can’t because you must attend to your dog, designate someone else to get information. Remember, owners are solely liable for injuries or damage caused by their dogs. This includes injury to another dog or person, no matter how it began, who said what, or whatever.
What if I see someone break the Rudy's Dog Park rules?
Rudy’s Dog Park was established on the concept that dog owners would police themselves and each other. If you see someone who forgets the rules (i.e., forgets to pick up poop) politely introduce yourself, remind them of the rule, and thank them when they comply with the rule.
Can I bring water into Rudy's Dog Park?
At this time we have no water source so you must bring water to the park. We ask that if able each member bring extra to share in the event someone forgot theirs. We do have bowls at the park but another good thing to bring.
Does my dog have to have a current rabies shot to come to Rudy's Dog Park?
Yes.
Can my newborn puppy come to Rudy's Dog Park?
No. Dogs must be at least 4 months old and be fully vaccinated.
What should I do about an aggressive dog?
First, remove your dog from the situation. Second, (if it is safe) politely tell the dog’s owner that you feel their dog is aggressive and ask them to take some action to control their dog or leave the park. If you do not feel safe or a polite request has no effect then you may contact the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department at 574-267-5667
What should I do if someone is bitten at Rudy's Dog Park?
Dog bites are rare at dog parks, especially if all users follow the rules and respect other people and dogs. But if someone is bitten:
- Remain calm. Get the person who was bitten medical attention immediately, including calling 911 if necessary
- Contact the Kosciusko Sheriff’s Department at 574-267-5667 for a bite report if warranted.
Should I bring my dog to the park when it’s really hot?
Because of the danger of heat stroke, we warn against extended use of the park during the heat of the day. Always bring plenty of fresh clean water any time you use the park.
What should I do if I suspect my dog has heat stroke?
Signs of heat stroke are intense, rapid panting, wide eyes, salivating, staggering and weakness. Advanced heat stroke victims will collapse and become unconscious. The gums will appear pale and dry. Any temperature above 105 degrees is dangerous. The longer the temperature remains at or above 105 degrees the more serious the situation.
If you suspect your dog has heat stroke, place him/her in a tub of cool running water or spray with a hose, being sure the cool water contacts the skin and doesn’t simply run off the coat. Thoroughly wet the belly and inside the legs. Run the cool water over the tongue and mouth. Take a rectal temperature if possible to know when to stop cooling. A safe temperature is about 103 degrees. Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Where can I learn more about preparing for a visit to the dog park and dog park safety?
Check out this great article, “Off the Leash: Dog Park Fun And Safety,” by Brian Davidson, published on GoodDogz.org, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to educating potential dog owners on dog selection and care and supporting the efforts of rescue groups.
The San Francisco Chronicle has a story about the perils of mixing small dogs and big dogs in the same park: “In dog parks, size matters; small-pooch crowd fights for turf away from bigger barkers.”
Why do I have to pay (become a member) to use the park?
The park receives no financial or maintenance support from the city, county or state. Membership dues are used to maintain and improve the park along with monies generated through fundraising efforts and donations.
Why does my dog have to have proof of current vaccines, negative heartworm test results and negative intestinal parasite test results?
To insure that dogs using the park are protected as much as possible from the transmission of contagious disease and to protect humans from zoonotic disease.
Why are children under 4 feet tall not permitted in the park?
Dogs at play can easily run into and /or knock over a small child potentially causing injury to the child.
Why is membership per calendar year rather than a year from the date I become a member?
At this time we must use a key entry system (we are working on electronic entry as a future improvement) and the locks are changed and new keys are changed after the first of the year. (Needs updated to reflect the current “why”)