Dogs

Orlando is the second-most pet-friendly city in America, making it a great place to be a dog (and a dog owner). Besides the dog-friendly cafes and pet care facilities, Orlando is home to a number of dog parks to meet every owner’s preference.

Before checking off these parks from your pet’s to-do list, make sure you’ve read up on proper dog park safety and preparation. Know behavioral cues to watch out for when playtime goes from rowdy to rough. And ensure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and treatments.

Lake Baldwin Park

Location – 2000 S Lakemont Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 (Click for directions)

Hours – Open 7am – 8pm (Monday – Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?:

This canine paradise is situated on over 23 acres of land, complete with a lake and trails. This park features a beach, surrounding trails for on-leash adventures, and a dog wash station. It’s nearly perfect rating on Google is a testament to how beloved this space is by dog owners in the community.

Lake Baldwin Park doesn’t just think about the dogs. There are picnic tables, pavilions, bathrooms, and plenty of shade courtesy of the many oak trees on the property.

Note: The park stays closed until 12pm for maintenance on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Optional

What You Miss Out On:

This park doesn’t feature any agility equipment or play structures.

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Barber Dog Park

Location – 3701 Gaitlin Ave, Orlando, FL 32812 (Click for directions)

Hours – Open 8am – 8pm (Spring / Summer), 8am – 6pm (Fall / Winter)

Why Did it Make the List?:

Barber Dog Park might not have a lake to doggy-paddle in, but it does have agility equipment and plenty of open green for running. The park provides water fountains for dogs and owners. During the summer there are sometimes pools available for dogs to play in.

Dogs are separated based on their size as a safety precaution. If you have a dachshund you can send them over to the 30 pounds and underside, whereas you can take your labrador to the 30 pounds and up. This allows for an environment that is not only safer but more fun for the dogs.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes

What You Miss Out On:

This park doesn’t have a lake, and pools are only available seasonally.

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Park of the Americas

Location – 201 Andes Ave, Orlando, FL 32807 (Click for directions)

Hours – Open 7am to 9pm (Monday to Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?:

Park of the Americas is a newer off-leash park. It offers off-leash run space and a track and trail for dog walking. The park provides water bowls and a hybrid fountain to keep your dog hydrated during the hottest parts of summer.

This park divides dogs at the 35-pound mark, offering a play space for larger dogs and smaller dogs to meet dogs of similar sizes. Both sections feature painted concrete tunnels that dogs can play in, climb on, or lounge inside to cool down. In the large dog park, dogs can play on a sandy hill.

This park stays well-lit, even when you stay until close, thanks to lampposts along the perimeter of the small dog park.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes

What You Miss Out On:

This park has less shade and no dog wash station.

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Hound Ground

Location – 900 E State Rd 434, Winter Springs, FL 32708 (Click for directions)

Hours – Open 7am to 8pm (Thursday-Tuesday), Closed on Wednesdays

Why Did it Make the List?:

Hound Ground is a well-manicured dog park with plenty of grass and updated facilities. It features agility equipment, a dog wash station, and seating for dog owners.

This park offers a separate park for dogs under 30 pounds. Sidewalks surrounding the greenspace keep owners from walking through the grass on rainy days. The park also provides toys for your dog to play with while there.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes

What You Miss Out On:

The park is rumored to have recently removed water fountains. Be sure to bring water for your dog just in case.

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Arbor Dog Park

Location – 1405 N Grant St, Longwood, FL 32750 (Click for directions)

Hours – Open 7am to 8pm (Monday-Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?:

Arbor Dog Park offers a more natural, wooded space for your dogs to meet new friends and play. This spot is shaded and offers ample seating for pet parents, with a separate section for smaller dogs to play.

Cement tunnels and agility equipment are present in both small and large dog parks. Once the playing comes to an end, owners can wash their dogs at the wash station, which features a drinking fountain with two bowl heights to accommodate your dog’s size.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes

What You Miss Out On:

This spot has fewer grassy patches making it likely for your dog to get dirtier while playing. However, the dog wash station provides a quick and easy solution.

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Downey Dog Park

Location – 10107 Flowers Ave, Orlando, FL 32825 (Click for directions)

Hours – Open 8am to 6pm (Monday-Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?:

Downey Dog Park offers shade and seating for pet parents and large spaces to run for small and large dogs alike. The park’s play spaces are separated based on size, but each offers ample room for play.

Dog water stations are available to keep your dogs cool and hydrated. If you don’t bring your own potty bags, the park provides stations so you can pick up after your dog.

Downey Dog Park offers a time-out pen, unlike other parks. This is a great feature to help disperse an overstimulated dog’s energy or separate two dogs who are acting up.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes (Optional)

What You Miss Out On:

This park has fewer grassy patches than other parks mentioned, meaning your dog is likely to get very dirty while playing here.

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Paw Park of Historic Sanford

Location – 427 S French Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 (Click for directions)

Hours – Opens 7:30am to 8:00pm (Monday-Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?

This dog park, located in historic Sanford, is a well-kept space to bring your dog. It offers plenty of space for your dog to roam and seating for owners to relax in the shade. The park covers all the basic amenities, such as play equipment, dog wash stations, and drinking fountains. And even if you’re out late, this park is lighted to keep you from being stuck in the dark.

The location of this park is perfect for a day out with your dog. After spending time at the park you can walk across to the self-service dog wash and then on to the pet bakery for a bite to eat.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes

What You Miss Out On:

Paw Park doesn’t have a lake or pool for dogs to swim in during the hottest Florida months.

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Dr. P Phillips Community Park

Location: 8249 Buenavista Woods Blvd, Orlando, FL 32836 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Open 8am – 8pm (Monday – Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?

This dog parks splits dogs into play areas by size. Each sections is grassy and spacious with a dog pool setup on most warm days. Dog owners also have access to a hose which can be used as a water fountain or a dog washing station.

If you have small children, you’re in luck. This dog park is only a portion of the much larger Dr. Phillips Community Park. This makes it great fun for the whole family.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes (at 30 lbs)

What You Miss Out On:

Shade and seating can be difficult to find on hot summer days. Pack extra water and an umbrella to fight off the Florida heat.

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Lake Buena Vista is best known for its proximity to tourist attractions like the Disney World parks, but it’s also home to a handful of dog parks for year-round residents. The variety of dog-related spots are increasing in this dog-friendly city, but nothing beats letting your pet roam and play in a traditional dog park.

Know Before You Go: Be sure that your dog is up to date on all vaccinations and treatments before taking them out to make friends. It’s also wise to read up on canine body language so you can diffuse bad situations before they start.

Check to make sure water will be provided at the park of your choice, then hit the road. It’s time for your pup to make new friends!

Meadow Woods Dog Park

Location: 1751 Rhode Island Woods Cir, Orlando, FL, US, 32824 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Open 8am – 8pm (Monday – Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?

Meadow Woods is tucked away near a residential area and features walking paths, ponds, and large dog runs split by size. The walking paths around the lakes are great for on-leash exercise. When you want to let your dog run you can let them in through the double safety gates to play with dogs in their same size group (split at 30 lbs).

On busy days shade and seating can be limited so pack a folding chair and umbrella if you plan to go out during the hottest parts of the day. When your dog gets tired of socializing there are water fountains and a dog wash station to use on your way out.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes (at 30 lbs)

What You Miss Out On

There is no agility equipment available in this dog park and shade is limited.

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Dr. P Phillips Community Park

Location: 8249 Buenavista Woods Blvd, Orlando, FL 32836 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Open 8am – 8pm (Monday – Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?

This spot features two areas for dogs to roam based on size. There is plenty of grassy space to run and play fetch. If your dog enjoys water, there is a dog pool setup for splashing and playing during hot summer days.

Once your dog is ready to head home there is a water hose available that doubles as a water source and a rinse station.

If you are visiting the park with children there is a splash pad and play area with a small entry fee, making this a great day for a day out with your family.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes (at 30 lbs)

What You Miss Out On

This park doesn’t have agility equipment and is lacking shade for both dogs and pet parents.

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KUA Cumbie Canine Court

Location: 2138 Agate St, Kissimmee, FL, US, 34744 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Open 6am – 8pm (Monday – Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?

You’ll find KUA Cumbie Canine Court in Mill Slought Park. This park offers spaces specifically for large and small dogs to offer safe play for smaller dogs. There are benches, picnic tables and shade available to rest on while you watch your dog play.

There are also drinking fountains, bag dispensers, and an agility course that has been recently renovated. The extensive agility course features a jump bar, A-frame, and crawl tunnel among other equipment. There’s even a Paws Table which can be used to practice commands, take breaks, or use as a grooming table.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes (Certain Sections)

Separated by Size: Yes

What You Miss Out On

This park is smaller than other options. While it is perfect for practicing agility and working on training with your pup, it may be a pass if you’re only there for socializing.

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Shingle Creek Regional Park

Location: 925 S Bass Rd, Kissimmee, FL, US, 34746 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Open 8am – 7pm (Monday – Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?

This park has plenty of shade for Florida summers and spots to sit while you watch your dog play. The surrounding park features a trail where you can take your dog to hike on-leash. The fenced play areas are separated into large and small dog runs. Within each spot are water fountains for dogs to drink from while playing.

Due to the surrounding trees, this spot has more flies and mosquitos and isn’t as grassy. However, when you’re getting ready to leave you can stop by the dog wash station and rinse your dog off.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes

What You Miss Out On

Shingle Creek doesn’t have any agility equipment available for your dog to run through, unlike other options in the Lake Buena Vista area.

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Vista Park

Location: 14200 Hunter’s Vista Blvd, Orlando, FL 32837 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Why Did it Make the List?

Vista Park is split into two areas. The larger field is reserved for larger dogs. If you have a smaller dog there is a second sectioned off area of the park reserved for dogs under 25 pounds.

This park, part of the Hunter’s Creek community in Orlando, requires that your dogs be registered. Registration allows other dog owners to know that your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes (at 25 lbs)

What You Miss Out On

This park is for Hunter’s Creek Community residents in the area if you aren’t a resident of the Hunter’s Creek area then we recommend you check out the other dog parks in the area.

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Osprey Park

Location: 5100 Town Center Blvd, Orlando, FL 32837 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Why Did it Make the List?

Osprey Park is different from other Orlando dog parks in its setup. Here you’ll find two separate runs. There is a non-aggressive dog enclosure that allows dogs from different families to mingle and play in one fenced area.

The second spot is reserved for non-social dogs, which allows single families the space to let their dog run freely without interaction with other dogs. If the park is busy, they ask that you use the non-social dog park in thirty-minute chunks.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: No

What You Miss Out On

This park is for Hunter’s Creek Community residents in the area if you aren’t a resident of the Hunter’s Creek area then we recommend you check out the other dog parks in the area.

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My dog is a… Pug | Bulldog | German Shepherd | Labrador Retriever | Yorkshire Terrier

Not all pet owners, especially those who have adopted, know the lineage and true breed of their four-legged friend. But, if you have a good idea of their breed based on their appearance or have purchased a dog from a breeder then you have the advantage of preparing for health concerns specific to your dog’s breed.

Common dog breed health concerns are caused by breeding practices or the body shape of the dog.

Purebred dogs are selectively bred for physical features outlined in the American Kennel Club as desirable. This sometimes leads to breeders practicing line breeding, popular sire syndrome, or inbreeding to attain the desired look of the breed. This causes hereditary problems to spread throughout the breed.

A dog’s breed-specific frame and shape can also be attributed to a heightened chance of certain health concerns. Take, for example, bulldogs and pugs. These short-snouted canines are undoubtedly adorable. But their short snouts caused breathing problems.

You can limit the chances of your pup developing a breed-related health problem by only purchasing from reliable breeders who care about the integrity and long-term health of the animals they produce. Always ask for medical testing and family history of diseases to avoid buying from breeders who are ignorant to genetic problems and breeding best practices.

Unfortunately, if you adopt or take in a stray they won’t show up with their medical history and lineage in tow. You can prepare for potential breed-related concerns by identifying their breed based on their physical features. When you bring your pet for their annual checkup your vet can help determine their breed.

Pug

Pugs are a compact dog within the AKC’s toy group. They tend to have a clever and playful personality. These dogs are easily spotted with their short snouts and prominent eyes. They are usually between 14 and 18 pounds and stand up to 14 inches tall at the shoulder.

Pugs are unfortunately known to suffer from a number of health problems.Pugs tend to be enthusiastic eaters and will easily become obese if food intake is not closely monitored. They are also prone to eye injuries, overheating, and breathing difficulties, among other health problems.

The most common health concerns pugs experience are Pug Dog Encephalitis, Luxating Patellas, and portosystemic shunt.

Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE)

PDE caused inflammation to the brain and is hereditary. It causes seizures, disorientation, blindness, and other dramatic symptoms.

Unfortunately, this is a fatal disease with no cure. However, you can take precautionary and maintenance measures to give your pug a comfortable and happy life.

What You Can Do

First and foremost, if you are purchasing from a breeder, only purchase from one who provides proof of genetic testing. Responsible breeders will not breed dogs who have been diagnosed with PDE as it is hereditary. This can help you avoid the heartbreak of watching your pet suffer from the symptoms of PDE.

If you have adopted and bought a pug who develops the symptoms of PDE, seek veterinary assistance immediately. Your vet will be able to diagnose your pug and determine if it is PDE or a similar health concern. This will require blood work, diagnostic imaging, CSD taps, and genetic testing.

Your veterinarian will prescribe drugs to control the symptoms of PDE. And while uncontrolled PDE is generally fatal within one year of diagnostic, if controlled with medication, pugs may live for several years with PDE.

Luxating Patellas

Luxating Patellas are another hereditary health concern for pugs (although it can also be caused by your pug becoming overweight). Sometimes referred to as trick knees, luxating patellas are the dislocation of the knee cap.

This health problem presents in four levels, with the most severe keeping your pug from using their affected leg. At that point, corrective surgery should be performed.

What You Can Do

As with other hereditary problems, always check with a trustworthy breeder to ensure they are breeding their pugs responsibly and luxating patellas are not present in your pup’s lineage. You’ll also need to keep your pug’s weight under control as obesity can also cause luxating patellas to develop. While this problem is treatable, it’s much easier and more comfortable for your pug to focus on prevention.

Low-grade luxating patellas will be managed with pain and anti-inflammatory medications. Your pug will need to have exercise restricted to avoid stress to the patellas. Weight management will also be encouraged by your veterinarian in dogs where weight is a concern.

In more severe cases, surgery will be needed to correct the problem. This is particularly the case when both of your dog’s back legs are affected by luxating patellas.

Bulldog

The Bulldog also called the English Bulldog or British Bulldog, has an unmistakable hefty build and short, wrinkled face. If your dog is a bulldog you’ll know it. They have a muscular build, relatively small ears, and stand at about 15 inches tall.

This breed is known today to be a loyal companion animal but was originally bred for a much different purpose. Potentially stemming from a 5th-century English breed called the Alaunts, Bulldogs were used for farm work and more frequently in the cruel sport of bull-baiting. Today, the lovable English Bulldog is more likely to be found playing in a backyard than wrangling livestock on a ranch. But because of the breed standard, Bulldogs do have specific hereditary health conditions owners should be aware of.

Bulldogs commonly experience Brachycephalic Airway Obstructive Syndrome (BAOS) and cherry eye among other severe health conditions.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstructive Syndrome (BAOS)

Bulldogs are susceptible to developing this condition due to their short faces and thin nasal passages. This leads to difficulty breathing which is worsened by obesity, hot weather, and exercise.

BAOS can lead to other related problems, including bronchial collapse, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux.

The main signs your bulldog has BAOS is particularly noisy breathing, snoring when relaxed or asleep, and snorting when excited. Because this restricted breathing, dogs with BAOS are known to collapse in the heat and after exercise, as they tire extremely easily.

Your dog will most likely be diagnosed with BAOS by the age of four if it is present. This diagnosis is the result of breed characteristics, clinical signs, and physical examination outcomes.

What You Can Do

Bulldog owners faced with a BAOS diagnosis can tackle it with a strict weight loss or weight management regime. You’ll want to control your dog’s exercise and keep them in air conditioned spaces, especially during the summer months.

Your dog’s veterinarian may prescribe oxygen therapy or NSAIDs but this will only help manage the problem—not fix it. Surgery is the only way to completely cure the abnormalities resulting in BAOS. The surgery will improve airflow by removing tissue from the nostrils or laryngeal saccules to better clear the larynx.

Cherry Eye

Cherry eye is essentially a prolapsed third eyelid. The eyelid comes out of place and becomes mispositioned which leads to a swollen mass at the bottom of your dog’s eyes. This is a hereditary problem so if your pet’s mom or dad experienced cherry your pet will be more likely to develop it at some point in their life. You’ll also want to note, if your dog has experienced cherry eye in one eye but not the other there is a greater chance they will eventually experience it in the unaffected eye.

Cherry eyes can be incredibly uncomfortable for dogs but are thankfully not an all-out emergency. It is suggested, however, to tackle the issue early on to avoid surgery if possible.

What You Can Do

You should take your dog to the vet for treatment soon after you discover the problem. If caught early, treatment may be as simple as massages to the affected area or medication in addition to massage.

If the problem is more severe, surgery may be required. Surgery methods vary. Some veterinarians may replace the third eyelid gland, others may use a pocketing method, and still others may remove the gland entirely.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are easily recognizable medium to large-sized dogs. The breed originated in Germany and is known for producing loyal, alert, and courageous companions. German Shepherds are great dogs for active individuals or families who have time to invest in keeping their pup entertained, but this breed does have hereditary problems to consider. The biggest concern being hip dysplasia.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia causes the hip joint to become malformed. This leads to instability and osteoarthritis. Because it is hereditary, mindful and responsible breeding are the only way to reliably avoid hip dysplasia developing.

What You Can Do

As an owner of a German Shepherd with hip dysplasia you have a few treatment options. Depending on the severity veterinarians may suggest:

• Weight reduction
• Physical therapy
• Joint supplements
• Anti-inflammatory medications

In more severe cases and if your dog is a good candidate, surgery may be the best option. Surgeries to correct hip dysplasia include double or triple pelvic osteotomy, total hip replacements, and femoral head ostectomy. These surgeries all average in at $2,000 to $5,000 or more to complete.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador retrievers are an incredibly popular dog breed in the United States. These dogs are known for being lovable, friendly, and outgoing companions. These dogs are medium to large in size with a thick “otter tail”.

Unfortunately, while Labrador retrievers are known for their great personalities they have health problems that often crop up as they exit their active younger years. Labrador retrievers often have problems with obesity.

Obesity

Obesity can be a problem for any dog breed if fed an improper diet but it is particularly prevalent in Labrador retrievers. Owners can seek advice from a veterinarian for getting their pet’s weight back on track if the current efforts aren’t working. Obesity may not seem like a big deal but it can lead to many other health problems including urinary bladder stones, osteoarthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.

What You Can Do

Getting an obese dog’s health back on track will require both habit and diet changes. Owners can:

• Switch to food meant for controlling weight
• Pay close attention to measuring meals
• Limit snacks and eliminate table scraps as treats
• Pick treats that are low-calorie

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire terriers are feisty dogs thought to originally be bred for small vermin hunting. These days “Yorkies” are known for being pampered lapdogs and companions rather than miniaturized hunting dogs. This breed is known for its high energy and small size, with males coming in at only 9 inches tall at the withers.

Unfortunately, Yorkies aren’t free from health problems. Owners or Yorkshire terriers should be aware of potential problems with a collapsed trachea or portosystemic shunt.

Collapsed Trachea

A collapsed trachea caused airway obstruction in dogs and is actually fairly common, particularly in small breeds. Collapsed tracheas occur due to the collapse of the tracheal rings that make up the windpipe.

If your Yorkie is especially noisy, has trouble breathing, and exhibits frequent coughing and gagging, they may have a collapsed trachea. These symptoms are often exacerbated by excitement, drinking, and exercise.

Your veterinarian will likely carry out a radiograph and fluoroscopy to confirm that problem is in fact a collapsed trachea.

What You Can Do

If your Yorkie does have a collapsed trachea there are treatment options. Cough suppressants, antibiotics, and corticosteroids are all common drugs used to treat the irritating symptoms of a collapsed trachea. Remember to always check with your veterinarian before giving your pet any medication. Overweight dogs can sometimes decrease the severity of symptoms caused by a collapsed trachea with weight loss.

In severe cases, surgery may be required. These surgeries are less common and usually require a visit to a specialist.

Portosystemic Shunt (PSS)

Portosystemic shunt (PSS) is the presence of an abnormal blood vessel in the abdomen causing blood to partially bypass the liver. This often causes hepatic encephalopathy which is caused by the carrying of toxins to the brain that would otherwise have been pulled out by the liver. This can lead to dementia, coma, and death.

Dogs with PSS, and the associated problems that come from it, will exhibit signs of depression and tremors. The diagnosis process may include a bile acid test, CBC, urinalysis, and ultrasound.

What You Can Do

PSS can be managed with specialized diets and maintenance medication. Diet changes focus on higher protein and medication regimes often include antibiotics and lactulose.

In more severe cases shunts will need to be closed off with surgery using an ameroid constrictor.

Preparing for Expected Health Problems

It’s very rare for a dog to go their entire lifespan without a single health problem arising. But, pet owners have the opportunity to prep for common illnesses and conditions before they happen.

The best way to get a head start on breed-related health problems is to schedule regular vet visits. Your veterinarian will be able to make the best preventative decisions to keep your dog’s health in check. A veterinarian can often identify any telltale signs indicative of larger health problems.

Schedule a routine wellness exam for your dog at our Dr. Phillips location to get an in-depth look at your pet’s wellness, nose to tail.

Our dogs are more than just pets – they’re family, and it absolutely kills us to see them suffer from an illness or injury. That’s why it’s so vital for us to ensure that they’re getting all of the proper medication prescribed by their vet.

Since it’s not as easy as just telling them to take their medicine, here are some strategies and tips on making sure that your dog takes their medicine and gets back to their normal, healthy life as soon as possible.

Put it in food

Chances are, your dog won’t even begin to notice that you put medicine in their food. They’re often so focused on getting it all down as quickly as possible that the medicine just sneaks in without a trace. However, there are still some tips that you need to keep in mind while using this tried-and-true method of giving your dog their medicine.

• Use a savory food that you can stick the medicine in the middle of. Some good examples are:
• Wrapped up deli meat
• Cheese
• Chicken
• Peanut Butter
• Hot dogs
• Meatballs
• There are even treats made specifically for hiding pills, like Greenies Pill Pockets
• If possible, don’t let your dog see you hiding the pill inside of the treat
• Watch your pet while they eat to ensure that they actually finish the food (and their medicine)
• If you have more than one pet, ensure that your dog eats from the correct bowl for the whole time

Hopefully, this method will work for you and your dog, but that’s not always the case. Some specific medicines have a bad taste that can deter dogs from taking it or even eating their food entirely. If you’ve noticed this with your dog, consider some of the other options below.

Switch between non-medicated treats and medicated treats

If your dog doesn’t take to the method above, try giving them a treat without medication, then a treat that has a pill inside, and finishing with a treat without medication again. They’ll most likely be so focused on the flavor of the first and third treats that they won’t even notice the pill in the second treat. It also works as a nice little reward for being a good boy or girl and taking their medicine.

Tempt them with competition

If your dog sees another pet (or person) receiving a tasty treat, they’ll want in on the action. The more buildup that you provide to entice them in wanting the treat, the more likely it is that they’ll just scarf it down with the medicine in it. Here are some tips on how to make the most of this.

• Give multiple treats to the “competitor”, whether it be another dog, a cat, or even a human
• Let your dog sniff the treat, and snatch it away before they get a hold of it (don’t worry – you can give them extra treats after they take their medicine to make up for this cruelty)

Give it to them manually

If your dog is unwilling or unable to eat for any reason, you’ll need to administer the pill manually.

Husky Anuko sees through his owner’s tricks and avoids his medicine

In order to do this, grab their upper jaw and open their mouth while tilting their head back. Place the pill on their tongue as far back as you can. Then gently massage your dog’s throat to try to convince them to swallow it.

Demonstrated here by Willard Veterinary

Obviously, this only work if your dog is non-aggressive. If there’s potential for your dog to bite during this type of interaction, consider using a pill gun to avoid putting your hand in your dog’s mouth.

Hopefully, your dog takes to it better than this husky does.

View post on imgur.com

If you are witnessing your pet take their medicine as intended and they still aren’t exhibiting good results, call their vet immediately. Double check with the vet that you’re administering the correct amount of medicine at the correct time intervals. If you have been, schedule an appointment to have the vet check your pet again to make sure that they get better quicker and easier.

Residing in Dr. Phillips gives you easy access to Downtown Orlando and tourist attractions. But for pet owners, there’s even better news. Dog parks are plentiful in the Orlando area. In the Dr. Phillips area specifically, there are five parks to pick from.

Before heading out to the nearest bark park location, ensure your dog’s vaccinations and flea treatments are up-to-date. It’s also a good idea to read up on dog behavior so you can identify potentially aggressive dogs before an altercation happens.

Dr. P Phillips Community Park

Location: 8249 Buenavista Woods Blvd, Orlando, FL 32836 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Open 8am – 8pm (Monday – Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?

This park is split into two sections based on size. Each is grassy with plenty of room to run and play. If your dog enjoys swimming, there is a dog pool setup most days. Once your dog is ready to head home there is a water hose available. This hose is set up for use as a water fountain or as a dog washing station.

The dog park is only a portion of the Dr. P Phillips Community Park, making it a great option for families with young children.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes (at 30 lbs)

What You Miss Out On:

This park is lacking in shade and seating within the dog play areas making it a less attractive play spot on hot summer days.

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Shadow Bay Park

Location: 5100 Turkey Lake RD Orlando, FL 32819 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Open 8am – 8pm (Spring / Summer), 8am – 6pm (Fall / Winter)

Why Did it Make the List?

If you prefer hiking over playing in a field and want to bring your dog along with you, this is the perfect park for you. Shadow Bay Park is dog-friendly, despite not offering a traditional play yard for dogs. The park features trails to wander down and explore with your dog.

Features:

Off-Leash: No

Separated by Size: No

What You Miss Out On:

This park doesn’t have a fenced play area for dogs and is geared more to people who want to take their dog hiking on-leash.

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West Orange Dog Park

Location: 12400 Marshall Farms Rd, Winter Garden, FL 34787 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Open 6am – 8pm (Monday – Sunday)

Why Did it Make the List?

This park is an all-around great spot for dog owners to bring their pets. There is play equipment, a doggy pool, and water fountains for staying hydrated.

For dog owners, there is shaded seating and the security of knowing your dog is in a play yard with other dogs his size. If your dog gets too rowdy there’s even a timeout pen to keep them separated from the other dogs.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes
Separated by Size: Yes

What You Miss Out On:

West Orange Dog Park isn’t geared toward owners who enjoy hiking. This canine playground is focused on play and less on trekking down trails.

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Vista Park

Location: 14200 Hunter’s Vista Blvd, Orlando, FL 32837 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Why Did it Make the List?

At Vista Park, dog owners can feel secure knowing their dog is playing with others of the same size. The play yards at Vista Park are split between large dogs and dogs under 25 pounds. This park offers plenty of shade for pet owners who want to relax while their dog socializes.

Features: shade

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: Yes (at 25 lbs)

What You Miss Out On

Hunter’s Creek Community runs this dog park and the park is available only to Hunter’s Creek area residents. If you don’t have identification of your residency check out the other dog parks in the area instead.

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Osprey Park

Location: 5100 Town Center Blvd, Orlando, FL 32837 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Why Did it Make the List?

Osprey Park has two separate play yards. There is a non-aggressive dog enclosure that allows dogs from different families to mingle and play in one fenced area.

The second spot is reserved for non-social dogs. This play yard is designed to let pets who don’t always play well with others the chance to stretch their legs in a private run. On a busy day, the courtesy rule is to limit time in the non-social play yard to 30 minutes per family.

Features:

Off-Leash: Yes

Separated by Size: No

What You Miss Out On

Hunter’s Creek Community runs this dog park and the park is available only to Hunter’s Creek area residents. If you don’t have identification of your residency check out the other dog parks in the area instead.

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