As the weather gets warmer (and stays that way, hopefully!), it’s the perfect time to get out and about with our four-legged best friends. Our area has some really great spots for dogs to stretch their legs, play, and enjoy the outdoors. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites to get you started.
Dog Parks for Playtime:
Dog parks are fantastic for letting your dog run free, socialize, and burn off some energy. Here are some local options with details to help you choose the best spot for your pup:
- River’s Edge Dog Park, Woonsocket: This public park in Woonsocket is a popular destination and offers a little something for everyone. It features a playground nearby for the kids and, importantly on the Dog Park itself – a separated area specifically for large and small dogs. This is great for ensuring dogs of all sizes can play safely. There’s also a walking trail if you want to combine playtime with a stroll.
- Smithfield Dog Park: This dog park provides a more natural, woodland setting with plenty of shade, making it a cooler option on hot days. Like River’s Edge, it also has separate spaces for large and small dogs. The park installed a rainbow bridge near the entrance, a memorial dedicated to beloved dogs that have passed away.
- Uxbridge Dog Park: This is a well-maintained park with a sandy area that’s great for digging and softer on the paws. It also includes a walking path for a bit of exercise and, of course, separate areas for large and small dogs.
Important Dog Park Notes:
Before heading to any dog park, keep these points in mind for a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Children and Dog Parks: It’s important to know that many dog parks do not allow children or have very specific rules regarding them. This is primarily for the safety of both the children and the dogs. Always check the park’s regulations beforehand.
- Dog Food and Treats: Bringing dog food or treats into the dog park can sometimes be problematic, as it can lead to resource guarding or dog fights. It’s generally best to leave these at home or in the car.
- Toys: Bringing toys is usually fine, but be aware that some dogs may not share well. It’s a good idea to check with the Dog Park rules and, if allowed, to supervise closely and be prepared to intervene if necessary.
- Activity/Play Areas: As mentioned, River’s Edge and Smithfield Dog Parks have activity/play areas for dogs, which might include agility equipment or open spaces for running. This is a great bonus for dogs who love a bit more than just socializing.
Walks and Trails:
If your dog prefers a good walk or hike, we’ve got you covered there too:
- Blackstone River Greenway (Canal St. Entrance): This is a fantastic option for a scenic dog walk. You can access the Blackstone River Bikeway from Canal St. in Blackstone. The paved section of the greenway stretches for 3.7 miles south from Canal St., passing a playground and bridges, and goes all the way to South Uxbridge. It’s a part of the beautiful Blackstone River & Canal Heritage State Park.
Important Reminders for Happy Outings:
To make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time, it’s important to follow some basic guidelines:
- Always clean up after your dog. Nobody wants to step in a mess, and it’s crucial for keeping our parks and trails clean and healthy. Bring those poop bags!
- Keep your dog under control. Whether it’s on a leash or with good recall, make sure you can manage your dog’s behavior, especially around other dogs and people.
- Follow the rules of each location. Dog parks and trails often have specific rules about leash use, off-leash areas, and other regulations. Pay attention to posted signs and follow them.
- Be considerate of others. Not everyone is a dog lover, so be mindful of people who might be nervous around dogs.
- Bring water for your dog. Especially on warmer days, it’s essential to keep your dog hydrated.
We hope this gives you some great ideas for fun outings with your canine companions! Get out there and enjoy the beautiful weather and all the dog-friendly spots our area has to offer.
Do you have a favorite dog-friendly spot we missed? Let us know in the comments below!
Until next time, happy trails (and tails!) to you and your furry friends!
