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Frequently Asked Questions
Scroll down or click on the links to
the right to take you to your question.
What
exactly is the Pooch Playground?
The Pooch Playground is a fenced area for dogs to safely and
legally run off
leash with other dogs.
What do I need to bring to the Pooch Playground?
You should have an ample supply of pickup bags and water for your
dog. .
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Why does
Gahanna need a dog park?
Gahanna has a diverse population and strives to provide balanced
recreational
facilities to support all of its citizens. Residents
need a place for their dogs to
exercise and socialize with other
dogs to prevent behavioral problems and
aggression.
- There are more than 4,200 dogs in Gahanna.
- Between 30 – 40% households have dogs.
- Dog ownership promotes human wellness and reduces stress.
- Local ordinances require dogs be kept on leash.
- No place for owners to allow their dogs to run freely and to
socialize with other dogs.
- Dogs need exercise to prevent problems for their owners.
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More than 1500 communities have already successfully established
dog parks including several cities in Ohio - Cincinnati, Eastlake,
Springboro, Xenia, Westerville, Columbus.
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What are the benefits of the dog park?
- Promotes City of Gahanna’s reputation
as an innovative, exceptional place to live
- Provides service for Gahanna citizens
who don’t use existing park playgrounds or sporting areas
- Minimizes need for fencing in
neighborhoods where fences are discouraged
- Provides a safe, secure site for owners
to exercise dog
- Promotes higher compliance with
existing laws
- Invaluable for elderly or disabled
individuals to exercise their dogs
- Encourages responsible dog ownership
- Reduces destructive behavior and
nuisance barking
- Reduces dog aggression through
socialization
- Encourages year-round use of Gahanna
parks; can increase safety and security of little-used park
areas
- Provides social setting for dog owners
- Promotes exercise for owners
- Reduces number of dogs abandoned or
turned into shelters
- Encourages visitors to patronize
Gahanna shops and businesses.
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Who owns the Pooch Playground?
The Pooch Playground is owned, operated, and maintained by the
City of
Gahanna Parks and Recreations Department.
Any problems with maintenance
should be reported to the
Parks Department at 614-342-4250.
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Is there a fee to use the Pooch Playground?
No. Gahanna’s Pooch Playground is free to the
public. top of page
Do you have to be a Gahanna Resident?
No. You do not have to be a Gahanna Resident to enjoy
the park; however,
we hope that you will support our local business
while you are on your way to
and from the park.
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How big is the park?
The Pooch Playground is about 2 acres. There is also a
one-quarter acre that has been separately fenced as a
small-dog area for dogs
25 pounds or less.
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When is the park open?
The park is open from dawn to dusk, 7 days a week, 365 days a
year, unless
closed for maintenance or by the Parks Department for a
special
event. top of page
Do I have to keep my small dog in the
small-dog area?
Although small dogs are permitted in the large dog area,
dog owners must be
aware that small dogs can be seriously injured by
larger dogs. Small dogs can be
hurt when playing with larger dogs,
and some large dogs consider small dogs are prey. top
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Do I have to have a
dog to use the park?
You are welcome to come just to watch
the dogs at play. In fact, if you are thinking
about getting a dog,
the Pooch Playground is an excellent place to learn about
different
dog breeds. top of page
How many dogs can I
bring?
The Pooch Playground rules allow 3 dogs per person.
However, if you are not sure how your dogs will react to a lot of
other dogs and people, you may want to bring one dog at a time until
they get used to the park.
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Do you have to
register to use the Pooch Playground?
You do not have to register to use the Pooch Playground, but
Franklin
County requires all dogs over three months old to have a
current license and rabies vaccination. You can find
information about getting a license at
http://www.franklincountyohio.gov/auditor/Consumer/dogs/welcome.shtm
The Pooch Playground operates on an honor system and expects all
users to
comply with county ordinances. Animal control officers can
ask to see proof
of registration and rabies vaccination at any
time. top
of page
Does my dog have to be
spayed or neutered?
No. Your dog does not have to be
spayed or neutered to use the park;
however, we strongly recommend
you do so unless you intend to breed or show
your dog. Spayed and
neutered dogs are usually healthier and get along better with other
dogs. top of page
Can I bring my new puppy
to the Pooch Playground?
No. Puppies less than four months old
usually have not received all of their vaccinations and could be
exposed to canine diseases for which they have no immunization.
There are other safer ways to socialize your puppy until your
veterinarian says it is okay to take your puppy to the Pooch
Playground. top
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Do I have to clean up
after my dog?
Yes. You must watch your dog and clean up any
deposits made by your dog.
You can help keep the park successful by
cleaning up any deposits inadvertently missed by other dog owners. Trash cans are available in the park.
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Is there a restroom
available for dog owners?
There are porta-potties available outside of the fenced Pooch Playground area. top
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Do I have to let my dog
off of the leash at the Pooch Playground?
You do not have to
let your dog off leash; however, dogs that are on leash
may be
fearful and defensive when surrounded by other dogs. Your dog will
feel
safer and be more comfortable off leash. top
of page
Are there any breed
restrictions at the Pooch Playground?
There are no breed
restrictions at the Pooch Playground; however, no aggressive
dogs of
any breed may be brought to the park.
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What happens if
there is a dog fight?
Although dog fights are not common at a
dog park, they can occur at any time.
It is almost impossible
to tell which dog started the fight. If a fight occurs, remain
calm
and separate the dogs as safely as possible. The safest way is to
grab your
dog by the hind legs and pull your dog out of the fight.
NEVER REACH
FOR THE COLLAR. Once the dogs are separated, leash
your dog and move him away from the area. If your dog is injured,
exchange contact information with the other dog owner and see your
veterinarian. If your dog is not involved,
don’t let him run in to
join the fight. For additional information, please see
Preventing Dog Fights.
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What should I do if
someone is bitten at Pooch Playground?
Dog bites are rare at dog parks, especially if all users
follow the rules and respect other people and dogs. But if someone
is bitten, (1) get the person who was bit medical attention
immediately, including calling 911 if necessary; (2) get the identity
of the dog who did the biting and the name of its owner; (3) contact
Franklin County Board of Health (614) 462-3160 within 24 hours to
report the
bite.
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What is Pooch Playground,
Incorporated?
Pooch Playground, Inc. is a non-profit
corporation that was started by dog
owners to work with the City of
Gahanna to support the dog park. Pooch Playground, Inc. conducts
fund raising, organizes events, and promotes public awareness for
Gahanna’s Pooch Playground. top
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What can I do to help the
park?
There are so many ways that you can help. One is to
bring water and pick-up
bags to the park for your dog and others.
There are several bag holders located throughout the park where you
can stuff your excess plastic bags. Pick up after
your dog and
help others to remember. Pick up balls and toys after you are
finished playing with them. Contact us
to see other ways you can help by volunteering
for one of our
committees to raise funds or work events or
make a donation.
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How do I let the City
of Gahanna know my comments?
Please email the
City of Gahanna and let them know your
comments.
We need to get word to them how much the park is
appreciated.
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