The dog park in Lyon Oaks gives dogs the opportunity to play in a secure, open area without a leash.
Photo courtesy of Oakland County Parks and recreation.
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As the weather warms up, parking lots at local Bark Parks begin to fill up even more.
These playgrounds for dogs give the pets an opportunity to run around in a secure, open area without a leash, play with other dogs and even enjoy swimming in cool, refreshing water.
But Bark Parks aren't just for the dogs. They appeal to people just a much, said Sue Wells, administrator of parks and recreation operations
in Oakland County. She said both bark parks operated by the county in Lyon Oaks and Orion Oaks provide a fun, social atmosphere for people who own - and love - dogs.
She said a lot of friendships have been developed as a result of visits to the bark parks. People tend to gather together as their dogs enjoy playing and getting their exercise, said Wells.
Many of the people are bark park regulars who become acquainted through sharing their common interest, she said. Wells said efforts to establish the bark parks began after people moving into the area from places where there were dog parks kept questioning where the dog parks were.
The bark park at Orion Oaks opened in 2000 while the one at Lyon Oaks opened in the spring of 2002.
Attendance at both parks ever since has been high with the parking lots filling up even faster as the temperatures climb upward.
The county bark parks provide a wonderful opportunity for dogs who live in a condominium or apartment to run and play, said Desiree Stanfield, communications assistant.
The dog park at Orion Oaks features a 14-acre fenced enclosure with a small dog area, water and picnic tables and benches. There's also Bark Park Beach where dogs only can enjoy a swim, said Stanfield. The beach area includes a ramped dock, she said.
Orion Oaks is bordered by Baldwin, Clarkston and Joslyn roads in Orion Township. The dog park in Lyon Oaks is a 13-acre area fenced enclosure with small dog area, water, benches, picnic area and restrooms. It is located on PontiacTrail between Wixom and Old Plank roads. Both county bark parks are open a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset.
Special events are also held at the Bark Parks.
For example, there's a Halloween event and dogs can have their pictures taken with Santa around Christmas, said Wells.
"People have fun. It's a good time," she said. Dogs must be accompanied by an adult at all times and remain on a 6-foot leash until inside the enclosure. Dogs must have a current license, up-todate vaccinations, play well with others and respond to voice commands.
And, as one might expect, visitors are encouraged to clean up after themselves. Pet waste bags are provided by Pet Supplies Plus at both county bark parks.
In addition to the dog parks at Lyon Oaks and Orion Oaks, some local communities operate their own dog parks and/or dog runs. Check with your local community for more information.
A daily pass or annual vehicle permit is required for entry. These can be
purchased online at www.oakgov.com/parksrec or at
locations listed on the Web
site.
