Dogs in Parks

 

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.

Minto-Brown Island Park has an unfenced area designated for dogs off leashes.

Orchard Heights Park has a small area designated for dogs to run off leashes.

Please respect the rules in off-leash areas. All dogs must:

• Be properly licensed and vaccinated
• Be leashed prior to entering, and upon leaving, the off-leash area
• Stay within the off leash boundaries
• Stay away from wildlife, natural areas, pathways, and playgrounds
• Not display aggressive or threatening behavior to other park visitors or their dogs
• Not bark excessively

In off-leash areas, owners must:

• Possess the means for clean-up and disposal of dog waste
• Be with their pets, and in verbal control of their dogs, at all times
• Be liable for damage or injury inflicted by their dogs
• Comply with all other park rules and regulations

Note: Aggressive dogs are prohibited from the parks.

Turning dogs loose can be costly:

• It is against the law (the fine is $87.00).
• It makes one legally liable for injuries to others.
• It endangers your dog.

Loose dogs on paths and roadways:

• Endanger bicyclists, skaters, and children
• Invite confrontations with other dogs
• Frighten or chase wildlife

Responsible dog owners:

• Leash their dogs (6' leash)
• Scoop the poop (Mutt Mitts are free from dispensers)
• Use the exercise area at Orchard Heights or Minto-Brown Island Parks when dogs are off leashes

Irresponsible dog owners:

• Turn dogs loose on paths and roadways
• Look the other way when their dog defecates
• Resent having to obey the law

Note: Aggressive dogs are prohibited from the parks.