What is a Bark Park?
A park which has been designed and which has amenities that make it clear that dogs are invited and not just permitted. It is an organized area for dogs (and their owners) to exercise, socialize and play.

Why develop a Bark Park? 
The most obvious reason why dogs need access to open public space is because of their popularity. It is important to understand that the benefits apply not only to dogs and their owners, but also to the wider community.

What are the benefits? 

• A well-exercised dog is a happier and healthier pet. An exercised pet is more likely to be a better neighbor. Puppies and dogs which get enough exercise by playing in an enclosed dog park are less likely to create a nuisance, bark excessively, destroy property, jump on passers-by, etc.
• Owning a dog encourages people to exercise. Walking with a dog has been found to stimulate social interaction with other humans. In an era where people are other reluctant or afraid to approach and converse with a complete stranger, dog parks bring people together and create a greater sense of community.
• Dog parks are more accommodating for physically disabled persona and senior citizens who cannot always walk with their pets.
• Dog parks help eliminate the number of dog complaints from users of other county parks (joggers, walkers, picnickers, ball players) now that an alternative exercise area exists just for the pets.

Montgomery County Bark Park Specifics

• Park is located at 6794 Webster St. at the corner of Webster St. and Wyse Rd which is part of the newly built extension of Webster St. that runs between Little York and Stop Eight Rds.
• Open to the public.
• All dogs entering Bark Park must display current year's dog license.
• Park hours mirror regular Montgomery County Park hours: dawn to dusk.
• Includes canine agility equipment.
• Handicap access.
• Rules and regulations are posted at the Park and available below.
• Encompasses over six acres.
• Next door neighbor to the Animal Resource Center.

The Bark Park was built on a closed landfill and it represents a creative use of land which would otherwise go unused. Originally, the landfill was used to dispose of ash that was generated by the Montgomery County Solid Waste District Incinerators when they were in operation. Today, the landfill is closed and is a large hill covered in grass. The large hill is an ideal recreational environment to run your dog.

In keeping with the theme Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, most of the items in the Bark Park are made from recycled products. For example, all items made of plastic were made from recycled plastic. These recycled plastic items include the agility course, tables, chairs, gazebo, and even the trash cans.

In addition, plastic grocery bags will be reused at the Bark Park as an optional method of waste collection and disposal for dog owners.

RULES AT THE BARK PARK:

• All dogs must display a valid license.
• Dogs must be current on their vaccinations
• Leash all dogs while entering and exiting.
• Owners must be within eyesight and voice control over their pets at all times.
• Puppies under 4 months are prohibited to protect their own health. .Maximum of 3 dogs per adult.
• All children must be monitored and accompanied by a guardian at all times.
• Be prepared to leash your dog immediately if your pet becomes unruly, worrisome to others, aggressive to animals or humans, or displays mounting behavior .
• Honor the request of others to leash your pet if asked.
• Dogs in heat are not permitted
• Aggressive and/or vicious dogs are not permitted.
• CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR PET! WASTE MUST BE DISPOSED OF COMPLETELY AND IMMEDIATELY