An advantage of being early.

It's not the size of the stick that matters, originally uploaded by phaird.

Sunday was beautiful at the park. I had to come early to the park but I wasn't the only one with that idea. Coming early has a few advantages. It can start off really quiet being one of the first few at the park. My dog, Toby, likes that because it's not overwhelming with all the dogs and people yet. As people start to show up, it's not as jarring and he can deal with the transition much better. It also gives me a chance to talk with a few people or just take photos of the dogs running around. Toby can also get his nervous energy out and calm down as well before the crowds show up. Best of all, once it get's too busy, we can leave and feel we got a good day at the park. Staggering dogs at the park can really work do our advantage.
These two dogs are family and were loving the water and chasing the tennis ball. They would chase anything so even the small stick ended up being a tug-of-war between them. They were super cute and had a great time. I hope to see more of them next week.

Bella and the crowd.

Bella and the crowd., originally uploaded by phaird.

Another great weekend at the park. This Sunday was family day. Lots of people have been bringing their kids to the park. There has even been a few strollers coming. All the dogs are always so good with all the kids around too.
Some people get really upset when dogs scare their child in the past but everyone has to remember that this park time is scheduled for dogs. It is pretty rare though that a conflict comes up that isn't quickly resolved. With all these different breeds running around, some might think that it would lead to problems all the time. It's just not the case. Many dogs just love being off leash but will check in with their owners when they wonder too far away. These people love their dogs as family so the dogs expect love from everyone. That is just was dogs do. That is why I love coming to the park every Sunday. I get all kinds of love and I don't even have to have treats with me (though that would help).