Salem parks have something for everyone … for both two-legged and four-legged friends!
Listed below is more information on pooches in parks. Remember, visitors and their dogs enter off-leash areas at their own risk.
Dogs on leashes are welcome in all City parks. Most parks have Mutt Mitt dispensers so owners can pick up after a pet, which helps keep parks cleaner and safer for visitors. 800 Mutt Mitt refills can be purchased for $65. People interested in donating should contact SalemParks@cityofsalem.net.
There have been some community discussions about a fenced dog area at Cascades Gateway Park. Currently there are no funds available to develop the area.
Please respect the rules in off-leash areas. All dogs must:
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Be properly licensed and vaccinated
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Be leashed prior to entering, and upon leaving, the off-leash area
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Stay within the off leash boundaries
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Stay away from wildlife, natural areas, pathways, and playgrounds
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Not display aggressive or threatening behavior to other park visitors or their dogs
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Not bark excessively
In off-leash areas, owners must:
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Possess the means for clean-up and disposal of dog waste
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Be with their pets, and in verbal control of their dogs, at all times
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Be liable for damage or injury inflicted by their dogs
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Comply with all other park rules and regulations
Note: Aggressive dogs are prohibited from the parks.
Turning dogs loose can be costly:
Loose dogs on paths and roadways:
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Endanger bicyclists, skaters, and children
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Invite confrontations with other dogs
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Frighten or chase wildlife
Responsible dog owners:
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Leash their dogs (six-foot leash)
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Scoop the poop (Mutt Mitts are free from dispensers)
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Use the exercise area at Orchard Heights or Minto-Brown Island Parks when dogs are off leashes
Irresponsible dog owners:
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Turn dogs loose on paths and roadways
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Look the other way when their dog defecates
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Resent having to obey the law
Note: Aggressive dogs are prohibited from the parks.