Dog parks are a great way to socialize and have fun with your dog. Mesa is filled with parks where dogs can run and even swim. It’s fun to play fetch, work on commands, and let your dog run off some energy. It’s imperative for a dog’s overall health that they get out and play!
Know that all parks come with rules. Most require that you clean up after your dog, keep them on leash while entering and exiting the park, and remove the dog immediately at the first sign of aggression. However, not many people follow these rules, which can lead to injuries.
Mesa Dog Parks
There are several dog parks throughout Mesa. Some have picnic tables for dog owners to sit and relax while dogs play and others have ball fields and playgrounds. Some require dogs to be leashed at all times. Make sure to visit the park website to find out all the specifics before you go.
Here are a few:
Countryside Dog Park (3130 E. Southern Ave.)
Quail Run Dog Park (4030 N. Norwalk)
Red Mountain District Park (7550 E. Adobe Rd.)
Dobson Ranch Park (2359 S. Dobson Rd.)
Red Mountain Park (7745 E. Brown Rd.)
What You Can Do to Avoid Dog Park Incidents
Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are, injuries can happen. But there are some things you can do to keep your family (and your pet!) safe. First, read the rules on the park’s website or on the signs visible when you arrive at the park. If you know the rules, you’ll be able to avoid people who aren’t following them. For example, if the park requires dogs to be leashed at all times, keep your distance from people who don’t have dogs on a leash and notify the park staff as soon as you can.
If you are bringing your dog to the park, make sure your dog is leashed unless it is clearly marked that you are in an off-leash area. Your dog should not be aggressive and should obey your commands. Before you enter, make sure to observe other dogs. Are they acting aggressively? Are they obeying owner commands? Are the owners observant and acting responsibly with their dogs? If not, don’t enter the off-leash area.
Once you enter, if you notice any signs of aggression, leave immediately and notify park staff. If a dog does act aggressively toward you, alert the owner and avoid making eye contact with the dog. Back slowly away and exit when possible. If necessary, leave your dog in the off-leash area until the aggressive dog is leashed and under control.
What to Do About a Dog Bite Injury in Mesa
If you are injured by a dog, seek medical treatment immediately. No matter how small the injury, it is important for medical personnel to clean and treat it. They will also ask for the dog owner’s name so they can find out if the dog is up-to-date on its rabies shot. Keep in mind—it is important to make sure the dog doesn’t injure anyone else. Filing a claim and reaching a settlement can help cover the cost of your medical bills, rehabilitation, and plastic surgery, should you require it.
Seek legal advice and make sure the aggressive dog’s owner doesn’t act irresponsibly and negligently again. After you have found medical treatment, contact the Husband and Wife Law Team at (480) 753-4534 to find out what your next steps are. Our dog bite lawyers have experience with Mesa dog bite law.