If I had all the money in the world, I know what my dream dog field would be like, but sadly that’s not always possible. So, here are a few things, both in practical terms and dreams that I think a field should or could have.
- Obviously safety is first on the list & the obvious one is fencing. Fields that have taken the time to secure their field & take the time to show it off, ideally by video, to me is ideal.
- Secondly, dogs that do not live together must be kept apart unless it’s a proper organised socialisation evening. A risk assessed entry and exit protocol, assuming customers follow it. Some fields have a holding area for cars which is perfect. I have also seen fields use a system a bit like a meeting room door, ‘occupied or vacant’.
- A pretty stream running through with bridges under trees providing shade. OK, thats a dream one, but a supply of water ideally provided by the field, if not bring your own (which IMO you should do anyway) to provide fresh, contaminate free water for your own dogs.
- A part of the field planted with new and mature trees providing shade and enrichment … OK, you guessed it, another dream. But, an area of shade if you’ve come to sit around, not something people usually do when they come to *walk* their dog, but some fields do have shelters as well.
- A clean field where owners respect the facility and leave it clean for people and dogs to enjoy. Part dream and part real sadly as many people still do not leave the field how they would like to find it. This includes but is not limited to toys, broken toys, discarded food (both human and dog treats), poop and litter.
- This one is a dream with a touch of sarcasm (so unlike me) … I dream that one day customers will read the terms (field rules) and actually take heed. You can comment below …
