by Sheila-Ann Bender

Created on: May 26, 2009

A safe, happy and healthy canine is the goal of any responsible dog owner. Exercise, regular vet visits and socialization with other people and animals is the best way to insure that 'Fido' will meet the expectations you have set for him (or her). The city government and dog-loving citizens of Raleigh should be commended for the steps they have taken a create very canine-friendly environments within this beautiful North Carolina community.

A dog-walking club called 'Trail Hounds' is a group of Raleigh residents who enjoy walking their dogs in and around the area. The trails they take together are rated easy, moderate or strenous. People wanting to participate simply go with a group hiking a trail in the best category for them and their dog(s). 'Trail Hounds' has its own website (listed in sources below) which makes it easy to go to their site and contact a member about joining up and participating with a group of walkers. Membership is free, which is always good news.

The City of Raleigh sponsors and maintains three wonderful dog parks, and there are rules that must be followed to be eligible to use them. Dogs must be canine-friendly, be current on Rabies innoculatons, wear metal tags on their collars, be over four months old, female dogs should not be in heat, and every dog owner should bring a 6' leash. No digging is allowed in the dog parks, and-by all means-proper care should be taken to remove all pet deposits of feces. Raleigh's three dog parks are:

CAROLINA PINES DOG PARK-Open from sunrise to sunset every day, this canine park has three enclosed well-mulched areas for dogs to play and socialize with other dogs. It is located at 2305 Lake Wheeler Road at the Carolina Pines Community Center.

MILLBROOK EXCHANGE DOG PARK-Located at 1905 Spring Forest Road, this doggie park has a well-lighted play area that stays lit until closing. Hours are sunrise to 10:00 p.m. They host an annual fundraiser called 'Bark Around the Park', that features a dog-kissing booth!

OAKWOOD DOG PARK-Located at 910 Brookside Drive, and open from sunrise to sunset, canines love the two separate enclosed areas-one for large dogs, and one for the small guys.

Dog excursions in Raleigh are not limited to these three dog parks, however. Raleigh and the surrounding area abound in recreational areas that have many suitable trails for dogs and their people. In most of these parks, however, dogs do need to be kept on a six-foot leash. At least two of these parks have

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>