Below is a list of the FAQs which we have received and answered. If you have a question which you feel should be on this list, please submit it to us at faq@chelmsforddogassociation.org.
Q: Why are the FAQs so bare right now?
A: Questions (and answers) will be added as they are presented. The Dogs FAQ will be updated as time allows.
Dogs (17)
“Service animals are defined as dogs, or miniature horses, that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Examples of such work or tasks include guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling a wheelchair, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, reminding a person with mental illness to take prescribed medications, calming a person with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) during an anxiety attack, or performing other duties. Service animals are working animals, not pets. The work or task a dog has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.”
For more detailed information, we recommend that you read this article on the Sit Stay website.
Your dog’s body language can help you to understand how they are feeling.
(Happy, Worried, Angry or Unhappy)
Handouts given during the “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” presentation
Handouts given during the “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” presentation
From the Association of Professional Dog Trainers:
TDG: The Environment of Off Leash Dog Play
The Canine Ladder of Aggression
The Ladder of Aggression is a depiction of the gestures that any dog will give in response to an escalation of perceived stress and threat, from very mild social interaction and pressure, to which blinking and nose licking are appropriate responses, to severe, when overt aggression may well selected.
The Ladder of Aggression
The Ladder of Aggression is a depiction of the gestures that any dog will give in response to an escalation of perceived stress and threat, from very mild social interaction and pressure, to which blinking and nose licking are appropriate responses, to severe, when overt aggression may well selected. The purpose of such behaviour is to deflect threat and restore harmony and the presence of appeasing and threat-averting behaviour in the domestic dog’s repertoire is essential to avoid the need for potentially damaging aggression. The dog is a social animal for whom successful appeasement behaviour is highly adaptive and it is used continually and routinely in every-day life.
It is most important to realise that these gestures are simply a context and response-dependant sequence which will culminate in threatened or overt aggression, only if all else fails. Contrary to persistent misinformation, the gestures identified are nothing to do with a purported dominant or submissive state relative to companions. In all dogs, inappropriate social responses to appeasement behaviour will result in its devaluing and the necessity, from a dog’s perspective, to move up the ladder. Aggression is therefore created in any situation where appeasement behaviour is chronically misunderstood and not effective in obtaining the socially expected outcome. Dogs may progress to overt aggression within seconds during a single episode if the perceived threat occurs quickly and at close quarters, or learn to dispense with lower rungs on the ladder over time, if repeated efforts to appease are misunderstood and responded to inappropriately. As a consequence, a so-called ‘unpredictable’ aggressive response, without any obvious preamble, may occur in any context which predicts inescapable threat to the dog, when in reality it was entirely predictable.
(Shepherd, K 2009. BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Behaviour, 2nd edition.pages 13 – 16. Editors Debra F. Horwitz and Daniel S. Mills).
Kennel cough, otherwise known as canine cough, canine croup, canine infectious tracheobronchitis, canine parainfluenza infection, canine Bordetella bronchiseptica infection, is a common respiratory disease affecting dogs, and related canine species, all around the world.
Kennel cough, otherwise known as canine cough, canine croup, canine infectious tracheobronchitis, canine parainfluenza infection, canine Bordetella bronchiseptica infection and even, I have heard,’canine whooping cough’ is a common respiratory disease affecting dogs, and related canine species, all around the world. Canine cough is a multifactorial disease caused by a variety of infectious disease organisms that attack the upper respiratory tract (throat, nose, trachea and bronchi) and exacerbated by numerous non-organism factors such as poor-ventilation, overcrowding, low-immunity, high stress, high dust levels and dry air conditions (low humidity). Common organisms implicated in kennel cough infections include the primary infectious disease organisms: parainfluenza 2 virus, canine adenovirus type 2, Bordetella bronchiseptica (a bacteria) and various mycoplasma species as well as a range of secondary bacterial organisms including: Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Bordetella, Mycoplasma, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella and Pseudomonas. Occasionally, canineherpesviruses, reoviruses, canine adenovirus type 1 and even canine distemper virus havebeen associated with kennel cough symptoms in dogs.
Kennel cough is generally spread in conditions whereby large numbers of dogs are kept in close proximity to each other (pounds, shelters, pet shops, boarding kennels, breeding facilities, dog clubs, dog shows and multiple-dog households). Usually appearing in unvaccinated (and even vaccinated) dogs 3-10 days after exposure to infected dogs, the disease is characterised by infection and inflammation of the upper airways. Affected dogs develop a fever; enlarged throat and neck lymph nodes (generally not appreciated bytheir owners) and a cough. This cough is harsh and hacking (often described as ‘honking’ or ‘hoarse’) and severe, explosive bouts of coughing will often be followed with a gagging, retching action (expectoration), whereby the dog looks like it is attempting to bring something up. The pet may indeed bring up something (a patch of white foam or phlegm) but, more commonly, the animal will swallow the expectorant and you won’t see anything brought up. Bouts of coughing can often be so severe and persistent that owners will fear their dog is choking and/or unable to catch its breath!The severity and frequency of the coughing is often exacerbated by dry air conditions, heavy panting, exercise (exercised dogs pant dry, irritating air across their inflamed airway linings) and pressure on the throat (e.g. the owner pulling on a lead and collar). A watery nose and or eye discharge may also be seen. Generally, most animals affected with canine cough will still appear to be bright and active and healthy-looking to their owners, despite the nasty cough, however, some animals may become more sleepy and lethargic than normal and go off their food a bit, as a result of the fever and illness. Generally the disease is self limiting (it usually goes away on its own in 7 to 10 days) but, occasionally, some dogs will progress to severe secondary complications, including pneumonia or chronic, long-term airway infection and irritation (a harsh cough that, quite simply, won’t go away).
Information from: Pet Informed
Is Your Dog Scared?
If your dog is scared, GET HIM AWAY FROM WHAT SCARES HIM; It may be time to leave the park.
Is Your Dog Pushy?
Pushy dogs aren’t listening to other dogs’ signals! Give him a time-out ON A LEASH or OUTSIDE THE PARK until he has calmed down and can show good manners.
Warning Signs:
Heavy panting, Excessive thirst, Glazed eyes, Bright or dark red tongue or gums, Excessive drooling, Staggering, Vomiting and bloody diarrhea, Elevated body temperature (104° and up), Increased pulse and heartbeat, Weakness or collapse, Seizures, Unconsciousness
Symptoms of Hyperthermia (overheating) in dogs:
- Heavy panting
- Excessive thirst
- Glazed eyes
- Bright or dark red tongue or gums
- Excessive drooling
- Staggering
- Vomiting and bloody diarrhea
- Elevated body temperature (104° and up)
- Increased pulse and heartbeat
- Weakness or collapse
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
Hypertherrmia in dogs (body temperature greater than 103.5°F), is typically caused by EXTERNAL sources (not a fever)
Causes of hyperthermia in dogs
- Not being able to pant efficiently to blow off heat. This may be seen secondary to airway problems.
- Factors that predispose to heat stroke including obesity, airway breathing problems, inappropriate exercise (in excess, in hot or humid weather conditions), dark-colored fur, etc.
- Toxin exposure. Certain toxins cause tremors that result in secondary hyperthermia such as compost, moldy food, snail and slug bait, antidepressants, ADD/ADHD medications, chocolate, etc. Other types of toxins cause the body to develop inappropriate hyperthermia without the tremors – this can be seen with used hops poisoning (from homemade brewing kits).
- Certain drugs. Rarely, certain veterinary anesthetic drugs can cause malignant hyperthermia in dogs. Certain breeds such as greyhounds and Labrador retrievers may potentially be more at risk.
Treatment of hyperthermia in dogs
Prompt treatment for hyperthermia is necessary; if the body temperature exceeds 105-106°F (40.6—41.1°C), it can result in cellular injury to the body.
Treatment includes:
- Aggressive cooling down to a temperature of 103.5°F (39.7°C)
- Thermoregulation
- Cool intravenous (IV) fluids
- Blood work monitoring
- Anti-vomiting medication
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Plasma transfusions
- Antibiotics
- Blood pressure and heart rate monitoring
- Symptomatic supportive care
- Anti-seizure medication if needed
3 tips to prevent hyperthermia
- If you notice any medical problems such as a change in bark, abnormal breathing or a raspy or snoring type of breathing, go in for a veterinary exam. The sooner a medical problem is diagnosed, the sooner it can be treated.
- Prevent obesity. Over half our dogs are obese nowadays, and this contributes to hyperthermia. Keep your pet lean. When in doubt, talk to your veterinarian about a change in diet (e.g., less calories). More importantly, increase the amount of exercise your dog gets!
- Exercise appropriately. Rollerblading with most dogs is a no-no. That’s because dogs have to increase their work of exercise (and breathing) to keep up with you. While I’m all for exercising your dog (for both weight loss and environmental enrichment), please make sure to avoid peak heat hours (i.e., 10am-4pm). Instead, when it’s hot out, exercise your dog early in the morning or early in the evening to avoid hyperthermia. Also, avoid exercise when it’s approaching 80°F (26.7°C) outside and/or is excessively humid.
(much of this information was cribbed from the Pet Health Network webpage)
Symptoms of Hypothermia in Dogs: Shaking (sometimes violent), Shallow breathing, Weakness, Low blood pressure, Dilated pupils, Coma Muscle stiffness, Blank stare, Pale or blue gums, Listlessness
Symptoms of Hypothermia in Dogs
- Shaking (sometimes violent)
- Shallow breathing
- Weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Dilated pupils
- Coma Muscle stiffness
- Blank stare
- Pale or blue gums
- Listlessness
Types
Mild –
Moderate –
Severe –
Causes of Hypothermia in Dogs
Normal body temperature for dogs is 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 to 39.2 degrees Celsius).
The only accurate way to tell if your dog has an increased or decreased body temperature is to take their rectal temperature. Experts recommend using a digital thermometer specifically designed for rectal use in dogs. Most thermometers intended for use in human ears do not work well for this purpose.
Falsely elevated temperatures can occur when pets are over excited or agitated.
To take your dog’s temperature, first coat the thermometer with a lubricant such as petroleum gel or baby oil. Next, gently insert the thermometer about one inch into your dog’s anus and wait for results. Most thermometers sold for this purpose will take less than 60 seconds to register
If your dog has a temperature greater than 103 F or less than 99 F, you should call your veterinarian.
Temperatures above 106 F or below 97 F are emergencies that must be treated promptly.
If your dog has a temperature above 105 F, you can help bring his body temperature down by applying cool water to his fur, especially around the ears and feet. Using a fan on the damp fur will help lower the temperature. Be sure to monitor your dog’s rectal temperature as you do this, and stop the cooling procedure once it reaches 103 F. You don’t want to bring down the temperature too fast läs hela rapporten.
If your dog has a fever, try to see that he drinks small amounts of water on a regular basis to stay hydrated, but don’t force it. And never give your dog any human medicines intended to lower fever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as they can be poisonous to dogs and cause severe injury or death.
If your dog has a temperature below 99 F, wrap them in warmed blankets (you can heat these blankets up in either a tumble dryer, on a radiator or with a hairdryer) and place a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel against your dog’s abdomen. Be sure to monitor their temperature every 10 minutes and if it falls below 97 F, seek emergency veterinary attention immediately.
Dog Fever Symptoms
- Lethargy
- Depressed mood
- Shivering
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Coughing
- Nasal discharge
From Pets.WebMD.com
Normal Pulse Rate
The normal pulse or heart rate for dogs can vary depending on the dog’s age and size. The resting heart rates of small dogs and puppies are faster than the heart rates of large or adult dogs.
Puppies can have resting pulse rates of 160 to 200 beats per minute when they are born, which can go as high as 220 beats per minute at two weeks of age. Up to 180 beats per minute may be normal until a year of age.
Large adult dogs can have a resting heart rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute, while small adult dogs can have a normal heart rate of 100 to 140 beats per minute.
Measuring your dog’s pulse
To measure your dog’s heart rate, you’ll need a stopwatch or clock that can show you a count in seconds.
Place the ball of two fingers (not your thumb) on the depression found in your dog’s inner upper thigh, over the Femoral artery. It may take a little searching around to find it the first time – don’t give up!
For smaller pets, placing your hand over the left side of the dog’s chest just behind the elbow also allows you to feel the heartbeat
Count the beats you feel for 15 seconds and multiply the result by four or for 30 seconds and multiple the result by two to get the beats per minute .
Be very careful when dealing with a dog that’s choking, as even calm animals will panic when they cannot breathe. Protect yourself by restraining the dog, but do not muzzle it.
- Use both hands to open the dog’s mouth, with one hand on the upper jaw and the other on the lower.
- Grasping the jaws, press the lips over the dog’s teeth so that they are between the teeth and your fingers. Any dog can bite, so use every precaution.
- Look inside the mouth and remove the obstruction with your fingers. Sweep your finger across the back of the mouth to feel for any obstruction. *If there are bones lodged deep in the dog’s throat, do not try to pull these out. You will need to take your dog to the vet immediately to have him sedated and the object removed safely.
- If you can’t move the object with your fingers but can see it, call your veterinarian or the emergency clinic right away.
If the dog is still choking and you can’t see anything in the mouth, or the dog has fallen unconscious, follow these guidelines.
Dog Heimlich Maneuver for a SMALL Dog
Carefully lay your dog on his back and apply pressure to the abdomen just below the rib cage.
Dog Heimlich Maneuver for a LARGE Dog
Do not try to pick up a large dog; you’re more likely to do further damage due to the animal’s size. Instead, perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs:
- If the dog is standing, put your arms around her belly, joining your hands. Make a fist and push firmly up and forward, just behind the rib cage. Place the dog on his side afterward.
- If the dog is lying down on his side, place one hand on the back for support and use the other hand to squeeze the abdomen upwards and forwards towards the spine.
- Check the dog’s mouth and remove any objects that may have been dislodged using the precautions described above.
Note that the object might be quite a way back towards the throat, so you might have to hunt around and hook it out with your index finger. If the dog required artificial respiration or CPR, seek immediate veterinary attention.
originally from petmd.com
Originally from the ASPCA website: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
Originally from the ASPCA website: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages and food products containing alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma and even death. Under no circumstances should your pet be given any alcohol. If you suspect that your pet has ingested alcohol, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.
Avocado
Avocado is primarily a problem for birds, rabbits, donkeys, horses, and ruminants including sheep and goats. The biggest concern is for cardiovascular damage and death in birds. Horses, donkeys and ruminants frequently get swollen, edematous head and neck.
Chocolate, Coffee and Caffeine
These products all contain substances called methylxanthines, which are found in cacao seeds, the fruit of the plant used to make coffee, and in the nuts of an extract used in some sodas. When ingested by pets, methylxanthines can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. Note that darker chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate. White chocolate has the lowest level of methylxanthines, while baking chocolate contains the highest. Please see the Chocolate Toxicity FAQ for details. With regards to caffeine, in dogs the toxic dose (of caffeine) is approximately 200 mg/kg of body weight.
Citrus
The stems, leaves, peels, fruit and seeds of citrus plants contain varying amounts of citric acid, essential oils that can cause irritation and possibly even central nervous system depression if ingested in significant amounts. Small doses, such as eating the fruit, are not likely to present problems beyond minor stomach upset.
Coconut and Coconut Oil
When ingested in small amounts, coconut and coconut-based products are not likely to cause serious harm to your pet. The flesh and milk of fresh coconuts do contain oils that may cause stomach upset, loose stools or diarrhea. Because of this, we encourage you to use caution when offering your pets these foods. Coconut water is high in potassium and should not be given to your pet.
Grapes and Raisins
Although the toxic substance within grapes and raisins is unknown, these fruits can cause kidney failure. Until more information is known about the toxic substance, it is best to avoid feeding grapes and raisins to dogs.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia in dogs. Signs usually appear within 12 hours of ingestion and can last approximately 12 to 48 hours.
Milk and Dairy
Because pets do not possess significant amounts of lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk), milk and other dairy-based products cause them diarrhea or other digestive upset.
Nuts
Nuts, including almonds, pecans, and walnuts, contain high amounts of oils and fats. The fats can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and potentially pancreatitis in pets.
Onions, Garlic, Chives
These vegetables and herbs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage. Although cats are more susceptible, dogs are also at risk if a large enough amount is consumed. Toxicity is normally diagnosed through history, clinical signs and microscopic confirmation of Heinz bodies.
Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs and Bones
Raw meat and raw eggs can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to pets and humans. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin that decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin), which can lead to skin and coat problems. Feeding your pet raw bones may seem like a natural and healthy option that might occur if your pet lived in the wild. However, this can be very dangerous for a domestic pet, who might choke on bones, or sustain a grave injury should the bone splinter and become lodged in or puncture your pet’s digestive tract.
Salt and Salty Snack Foods
Large amounts of salt can produce excessive thirst and urination, or even sodium ion poisoning in pets. Signs that your pet may have eaten too many salty foods include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, elevated body temperature, seizures and even death. As such, we encourage you to avoid feeding salt-heavy snacks like potato chips, pretzels, and salted popcorn to your pets.
Xylitol
Xylitol is used as a sweetener in many products, including gum, candy, baked goods and toothpaste. It can cause insulin release in most species, which can lead to liver failure. The increase in insulin leads to hypoglycemia (lowered sugar levels). Initial signs of toxicosis include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination. Signs can progress to seizures. Elevated liver enzymes and liver failure can be seen within a few days.
Yeast Dough
Yeast dough can rise and cause gas to accumulate in your pet’s digestive system. This can be painful and can cause the stomach to bloat, and potentially twist, becoming a life threatening emergency. The yeast produce ethanol as a by-product and a dog ingesting raw bread dough can become drunk (See alcohol).
Chocolate contains substances known as methylxanthines (specifically caffeine and theobromine), which dogs are far more sensitive to than people. Different types of chocolate contain varying amounts of methylxanthines. In general, though, the darker and more bitter the chocolate the greater the danger.
The amount and type of chocolate ingested is important, as they are the determining factors for the severity of the toxicity. The three types of chocolate that you must be aware of are:
- Milk Chocolate – Mild signs of toxicity can occur when 0.7 ounces per pound of body weight is ingested; severe toxicity occurs when two ounces per pound of body weight is ingested (or as little as one pound of milk chocolate for a 20-pound dog).
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Mild signs of toxicity can occur when 0.3 ounce per pound of body weight is ingested; severe toxicity occurs when one ounce per pound of body weight is ingested (or as little as six ounces of semi-sweet chocolate for a 20-pound dog).
- Baking Chocolate – This type of chocolate has the highest concentration of caffeine and theobromine. Therefore, as little as two small one-ounce squares of baking chocolate can be toxic to a 20-pound dog (or 0.1 ounce per pound of body weight).
Chocolate contains substances known as methylxanthines (specifically caffeine and theobromine), which dogs are far more sensitive to than people. Different types of chocolate contain varying amounts of methylxanthines. In general, though, the darker and more bitter the chocolate the greater the danger.
What Should I Do if My Dog Ate Chocolate?
If you know your dog has ingested chocolate , or has any of the symptoms below, contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680 or your veterinarian right away.
Common Household Items
Common Household Items | Serving | Theobromine* | Caffeine* |
---|---|---|---|
Ice Cream Rich Chocolate | 1 cup ( 148g) | 178mg | 5.9mg |
Peanut M&M’s | 1 cup (170g) | 184mg | 17mg |
Ready to Eat Chocolate Pudding | 4 oz (108g) | 75.6mg | 2.2mg |
Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar | 1.55 oz (43g) | 64mg | 9mg |
Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup | 2 Tbsp (39g) | 64mg | 5mg |
Hershey’s KISSES (Milk Chocolate) | 9 pieces (41g) | 61mg | 9mg |
Hershey’s Semi-Sweet Baking Bar | 1 Tbsp (15g) | 55mg | 7mg |
Cookies, brownies, commercially prepared |
1 Square (2 –3/4” sq x 7/8″) (56g) |
43.7mg | 1.1mg |
KIT KAT Wafer Bar | 1 bar (42g) | 48.7mg | 5.9mg |
REESE’S Peanut Butter Cups (2pk) | 2 cups (45g) | 32.4mg | 3.2mg |
Doughnut, cake-type, chocolate, sugared or glazed |
1 Doughnut (3′ dia) (43g) |
12.6mg | 0.6mg |
Chocolate Chip Cookies , made with margarine |
1 Cookie Med (2 1/4″ dia) (16g) |
20.3mg | 2.6mg |
Milky Way | 1 bar (58g) | 37.1 mg | 3.5mg |
Generic Hot Fudge Sundae Topping | 1 Sundae (158g) | 77.4mg | 1.6mg |
REESE’S PIECES Candy | 1 package (46g) | 0mg | 0mg |
* The amount of caffeine and theobromine will vary naturally due to growing conditions and cocoa bean sources and variety.
Foods Highest in Theobromine
Cocoa, dry powder, unsweetened, processed with alkali [Dutch cocoa] |
1 cup (86g) | 2266 mg | 67.1mg |
Baking chocolate, unsweetened, squares |
1 cup, grated (132g) | 1712 mg | 106mg |
Cocoa, dry powder, unsweetened | 1 cup (86g) | 1769 mg | 198mg |
Baking chocolate, unsweetened, liquid |
1 oz (28g) | 447 mg | 13.2mg |
Puddings, chocolate flavor, low calorie, regular, dry mix |
1 Package (40g) | 238 mg | 7.2mg |
Desserts, rennin, chocolate, dry mix | 1 Package, 2 oz (57g) | 242 mg | 7.4mg |
Puddings, chocolate flavor, low calorie, instant, dry mix |
1 Package, 1.4oz box (40g) | 189 mg | 5.6mg |
Syrups, chocolate | 2 tbsp (35g) | 68.3 mg | 2.1mg |
Cocoa, dry powder, hi-fat or breakfast, processed with alkali |
1 oz (28g) | 685 mg | 20.2mg |
Candies, chocolate, dark, 70-85% cacao solids |
I bar (101g) | 810 mg | 80.8mg |
Cocoa, dry powder, hi-fat or breakfast, plain |
1 Tbsp (5g) | 92.6 mg | 10.3mg |
Symptoms of concern include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased body temperature
- Increased reflex responses
- Muscle rigidity
- Rapid breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Advanced signs (cardiac failure, weakness, and coma)
Cribbed from PetMD.com
“CAFFEINE & THEOBROMINE.” The Hershey Company. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Sept. 2013.
“Nutrition Information.” Nutrition Facts, Calories in Food, Labels, Nutritional Information and Analysis – NutritionData.com. Condé Nast, n.d. Web. 12 Sept. 2013.
A preparation checklist to help protect your pets during an emergency
Dog Park (10)
This question gets asked quite frequently.
The biggest concern that people seem to have is that grass requires upkeep (mowing, occasional replanting, etc)
While this is true, the choice of ground cover was considered very carefully and was chosen after a significant amount of research.
This question gets asked quite frequently.
The biggest concern that people seem to have is that grass requires upkeep (mowing, occasional replanting, etc)
While this is true, the choice of ground cover was considered very carefully and was chosen after a significant amount of research.
The goal is not to have a perfect, golf-course-like, surface. The goal is to have surface that is good for the dogs, good for the environment and sustainable (both in maintenance and in cost).
- Grass is self-sustaining, once it gets properly established.
- Grass is better on the dog’s feet than nearly any other surface.
(For example, many dogs hate the feel of pea stone on their feet.) - Grass filters out many of the things in dog waste.
(The Chelmsford Dog Park is above the North Chelmsford Water aquifer. Our agreement with the water district, when building the park, was to use grass as part of the mitigation.) - Other popular suggestions like gravel, mulch, and pea stone are more expensive than grass. They also require regular replacement and maintenance.
Grass is actually cheaper, overall, than almost any other surface, when you take into account the primary and maintenance costs. - Since the Chelmsford Dog Park is mostly an open field – sand, pea stone, and gravel would get very hot in the sun, making it unsafe for dogs to attend the park. Grass stays cool in the sun (and produces oxygen).
The Chelmsford Dog Park was built using money from grants and donations. The town did not put any tax money into the building of the park and does not have any budget line items for the support and maintenance of the park. The park is maintained by the Chelmsford Dog Association through the volunteering and generous donations of individuals and organizations who contribute money, equipment and time.
The Chelmsford Dog Park was built using money from grants and donations. The town did not put any tax money into the building of the park and does not have any budget line items for the support and maintenance of the park. The park is maintained by the Chelmsford Dog Association through the volunteering and generous donations of individuals and organizations who contribute money, equipment and time.
If you would like to donate:
If you would like to volunteer, please look at our Volunteer Page or contact the Volunteer Coordinator.
The Chelmsford Dog Park is located at 52 Richardson Road, North Chelmsford, MA 01863
The Chelmsford Dog Park is located at 52 Richardson Road, North Chelmsford, MA 01863 – Google Map
The town granted us 2 acres at the former DPW lot which have been landscaped, prepared and made safe for the dogs and their owners.
There is no mail service to that location, so please do not send any thing via USPS or any other method to the park itself.
Any mail can be sent to the Chelmsford Dog Association at PO Box 491, North Chelmsford, MA 01863.
The primary surface is grass.
There is an asphalt path around the main area and the small dog area and there is also a mulch-covered hill in the main area.
Rules and Regulations for Chelmsford Dog Park
Rules and Regulations for Chelmsford Dog Park
- The Town of Chelmsford (or its agent) shall not be liable for any injury or damage caused by dogs or handlers. Owners/handlers are responsible for any injuries caused by the dogs under their control. The dog park area is for dogs, owners/handlers and those accompanying them.
- Hours: Dawn to Dusk.
- Dogs are to be kept on a leash (not exceeding 6 feet) when outside the dog park fenced in areas.
Do not have your dog unleashed between your vehicle and the gated entrance.
Leash and unleash your dog inside the dog park, not in the double gated holding area.
Do not open the outside gate if the inside gate is open.
Be patient. - Owners/handlers must carry leash at all times.
- No animals other than dogs permitted.
- Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 6 years of age are not permitted within the park. Handlers must be 16 years of age or older.
- Scoop your poop! Owner/handler must immediately clean up after their dog.
Owner/handler must have in their possession an adequate number of bags, or other appropriate device, for removal of their dog’s waste. - A maximum of two dogs per owner/ handler are allowed in the park at one time.
- Aggressive dogs are not allowed.
If your dog becomes rough or unruly or exhibits aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs, leash him or her and leave the park immediately.- Dogs with a history of aggressive behavior, as determined by the animal control officer, will have park privileges revoked.
- Dogs must display current license and must be properly inoculated, healthy (no contagious conditions, and parasite free. In the event of a dog bite or injury the owner/handler must exchange current tag info and phone numbers.
- All bites must be reported to Animal Control at (978) 256-0754
- Female dogs in any stage of heat are not permitted in the park.
- No puppies under 4 months of age are allowed in the park.
Puppies under this age are not fully vaccinated and are vulnerable to disease and injury. - Do not bring strollers, carriages, baby carriers, bicycles, skate boards, scooters, children’s toys, or dog toys into the park.
- Owner/handler must repair all holes dug by their dog under their supervision.
- Owner/handler must be in verbal control of their dog at all times.
- Owner/handler must remain in the park and keep their dog within view at all times.
- No commercial use of the dog park is allowed without prior agreement, including dog training classes, doggie daycare, dog walkers and/or advertisements.
- Training space is available for rental.
- Please contact the Town of Chelmsford by following the instructions on this booking form and PDF.
- The dog park will be closed periodically throughout the year for maintenance.
Prohibited
- Glass containers
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- The use of prong, spike, or choke collars
- Human and dog food or treats
- Human or dog toys
The CDA is not responsible for banning people from the Park. The park is on town land, and as such, falls under the jurisdiction of the town management. In order for the town to ban a dog/owner from the park, there must typically be a record of multiple incidents.
The CDA is not responsible for banning people from the Park. The park is on town land, and as such, falls under the jurisdiction of the town management. In order for the town to ban a dog/owner from the park, there must typically be a record of multiple incidents.
This means that incidents need to be reported to the Chelmsford Police! Posting on Facebook does not count as a report. While we appreciate being notified of issues, reporting it to the Chelmsford Dog Association does not count as a report either.
If a person or dog is reported to the Chelmsford Police several times for incidents (or if the action is sufficiently egregious, maybe after only one incident) the Animal Control Officer or other police representative may submit a request to the town government (through the town manager’s office) that the individual (dog or person) be banned from the park. If approved, a “No Trespass” order is issued to the individual and that individual (person/owner) can receive a fine or jail time for violating that order.
Every case is different and is handled individually – there is no “one size fits all” list of things that will be get someone banned.
If a dog in the park is acting aggressively or dangerously toward humans or other dogs, or a human in the park is being belligerent, acting dangerously or breaking the rules (even after a reminder/request or two) – this can and should be escalated to the Chelmsford Police by calling (978) 256-0754.
If a dog in the park is acting aggressively or dangerously toward humans or other dogs, or a human in the park is being belligerent, acting dangerously or breaking the rules (even after a reminder/request or two) – this can and should be escalated to the Chelmsford Police by calling (978) 256-0754. You can also fill out an Incident Report online, which will be sent directly to the Chelmsford Animal Control Officer.
Yes, the dog park has age restrictions on both dogs and humans.
Puppies under the age of 4 months are not allowed in the park.
Human children under the age of 6 are not allowed in the park.
Yes, the dog park has age restrictions on both dogs and humans.
- Human children under the age of 6 are not allowed in the park. Period.
- Human children between the ages of 6 and 12 are allowed, in the company of an adult.
- Human children between the ages of 12 and 16 are allowed, but can not be the primary handler of the dog.
- Human children over the age of 16 are allowed to be the dog’s handler.
- Puppies under the age of 4 months are not allowed in the park
We all want the dog park to be the fun time for our dogs. A little understanding of dog behavior and an alert eye is all it takes for good dog interaction. A little personal responsibility for the park is all it takes for the park to stay nice and clean.
Dog Park Etiquette
Dog parks can provide exercise and socialization for dogs, but they can also provide problems if dog owners are not paying attention. This is no different from a playground for children. A group of children playing can turn into shoving and crying if children aren’t taught how to behave and parents don’t watch for signs of trouble. And all parents need to clean up after their children to keep the playground safe.
We all want the dog park to be the fun time for our dogs. A little understanding of dog behavior and an alert eye is all it takes for good dog interaction. A little personal responsibility for the park is all it takes for the park to stay nice and clean.
The first step is to only bring dogs to the park that are relaxed around strange dogs. I have two wonderful dogs. One of them loves other dogs. The other has been bitten in the past and is nervous. He shows his nervousness by barking and growling. Some may say this is aggressive, but listening to his growl, you will hear a whine. That whine is the sign that he is scared and unsure of the other dog. I do not bring him to places where strange dogs play. He has a few dog friends that visit and I don’t push him to meet more.
My friendly dog can be overly friendly but I have taught her to approach other dogs slowly. She will roll over if the other dog shows any sign of concern. This is a good trait for a dog because rolling over is like saying “I am not a threat and just want to be friends.”
My neighbor has a dog that lunges and pulls on the leash when he sees other dogs, cars, bicycles, etc. This lunging is a sign of aggression. It could be from nervousness or a more malicious. Either way, like my nervous dog,he should not visit a dog park.
Here are some signals that your dog is being friendly:
- Approaches other dogs slowly
- Approaches from the side (even if headed toward another dog, the final few steps should involve moving toward the side of the dog and then turning toward them)
- Wagging tail
- Play bow
- Rolls over or allows other dogs to sniff
- Barking in a playful manner (you need to know your dog’s different barks)
- Not paying much attention at all (this doesn’t mean your dog isn’t interested, just that he is not concerned with the other dogs and therefore, he doesn’t need to focus on them)
Here are some signals that your dog is uncomfortable or not ready for a dog park:
- Whining
- Growling or unfriendly barking
- Ears pinned back
- Ears very forward
- Tail up (if normally down)
- Tail tucked between legs (usually means he is scared)
- Sticking his head between your legs (He’s looking for you to protect him. Do so by leaving the park. He will love you for it.)
- Showing teeth
- Lunging or charging other dogs
- Bumping his shoulder into another dog
- Stealing toys
- Jumping on people
- Jumping on dogs’ backs
(See our FAQ on dog body language)
If you have a dog that may not be friendly enough for the park, you can help him improve. Try bringing him to training classes. Also, try bringing him to the park but do not enter it. Just let him sit in the car and watch the dogs. If he is calm, on the next visit, let him walk around the parking lot on leash. Do this and the training until your trainer says that the dog is ready for the dog park. (You want to get other people’s comments on the dog because we are all biased toward our wonderful animals and it is easy for us to miss something.) Then only let him in when there are just a few dogs. Even dogs that like other dogs can be overwhelmed in a crowd.
Here are the signs of a good owner and supporter of the park:
- Only brings dogs friendly to other dogs and people
- Always picks up after his dog
- Watches his dog and other dogs for possible problems
- Throws trash in receptacles
- Lets others know if their dog needs picking up after
- Never leaves the dog in the park without adult owner supervision
- Removes dog immediately, at any sign of trouble
- Keeps the dog leashed except in the fenced area of the park
- Licenses the dog (just visit town hall for a form)
- Donates to and/or volunteers for the park
Working together, the Chelmsford Dog Park can be a great place for our friendly dogs to exercise. Dogs that struggle with social situations are always welcome to walk in our other public lands on leash and under their owner’s control.
By Beth Logan, CDA volunteer trainer
We depend on individuals to volunteer and donate. We have many needs, and opportunities. Anything you can do is greatly appreciated! Contact us, either in person at the park, or via one of the contact forms in the menu above.
The Chelmsford Dog Association is a group of volunteers who work to maintain the dog park in the Town of Chelmsford. We also host assorted other events for dogs and their owners.
For direct donations, we have several fundraisers every year and collect money from the donation boxes at the Chelmsford Dog Park. We also accept donations online.
Additionally, we organize and accept sponsorships for equipment for the park, as well as volunteer labor opportunities. Continuing opportunities for volunteering can be seen listed on our Volunteer Page.
In addition to individual donation and sponsorships, we are asking local businesses for donations so that we can maximize the cash donations we receive to be used for the Dog Park expenses and to fund future programs throughout the greater Chelmsford area. Your support would be greatly appreciated, and we thank you for your consideration. We have many needs, and opportunities. Anything you can do is greatly appreciated!
Please feel free to contact us for more details. We can be reached via e-mail at cda@chelmsforddogassociation.org, or by mail at PO Box 491, North Chelmsford, MA 01863.
About the CDA (9)
The Friends of the Chelmsford Dog Park was a spin-off organization from the CDA.
As of May 31, 2021, the FCDP decided to disband and maintenance of the park was handed back to the CDA.
The Friends of the Chelmsford Dog Park was a spin-off organization from the CDA.
In December 2019, the CDA split the organization in order to better handle the tasks of their charter. The CDA remained dedicated to supporting local dog owners in all ways, including community outreach and education. The Friends of the Chelmsford Dog Park (FCDP) was to take on the role to work with the Town of Chelmsford (through DPAC) for maintenance and development of the park itself.
As of May 31, 2021, the FCDP decided to disband and maintenance of the park was handed back to the CDA.
The CDA (Chelmsford Dog Association) is a group of people who worked to build and now maintain the Chelmsford Dog Park. The CDA also has a goal to educate people about responsible dog ownership.
The CDA (Chelmsford Dog Association) is a non-profit organization made up of residents from Chelmsford and surrounding towns, organized to help promote and support the maintenance of the off-leash dog park in town as well as to promote responsible pet ownership and educate local pet owners.
The CDA worked to build and continues to maintain the Chelmsford Dog Park. The CDA also works to educate people about responsible dog ownership.
In 2013, the CDA was officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit/charitable organization by the IRS.
The CDA had an agreement with the town of Chelmsford to provide volunteers and funding (through donations and grants) for the maintenance and support of the Chelmsford Dog Park. This includes the physical property and the well-being of the park users (both dog and human)
In December 2019, the CDA decided to split the organization in order to separate the tasks of their charter. The CDA was to remains dedicated to supporting local dog owners in all ways, including community outreach and education while the Friends of the Chelmsford Dog Park (FCDP) was to take on the role to work with the Town of Chelmsford (through the Town’s Dog Park Advisory Committee (DPAC)) for maintenance and development of the park itself.
For 2020, the CDA focused on the second half of their charter: Supporting and educating dog owners and will be doing Comunity outreach and holding seminars on various dog-related topics. However, as of May 31, 2021,t he FCDP decided to dissolve and, after discussion with the DPAC, handed the responsibility for the maintenance of the Chelmford Dog Park back to the CDA.
The Dog Park Advisory Committee (DPAC) is a town committe made up of Chelmsford residents who provides advice to the town (through the town manager) regarding the Chelmsford Dog Park.
The Dog Park Advisory Committee (DPAC) is a town committe made up of Chelmsford residents who provides advice to the town (through the town manager) regarding the Chelmsford Dog Park.
The DPAC works closely with the FCDP to determine the most effective use of grant monies for park enhancement and maintenance.
Decisions regarding closures and other site related questions come from the Town Manager’s office, as advised by the DPAC, who represents the interests of the town, and the FCDP who represent the interests of the Dog Park and their members.
As a town committee, the DPAC is subject to Open Meeting requirements.
http://www.townofchelmsford.us/505/Dog-Park-Advisory-Committee
The Chelmsford Dog Association (CDA) was organized in 2009 by several Chelmsford residents.
The primary goal of the CDA, when formed, was to promote responsible dog ownership, educate dog owners (and others) and spearhead the construction of an off-leash dog park in Chelmsford, MA.
The Chelmsford Dog Association (CDA) was organized in 2009 by several Chelmsford residents.
The primary goal of the CDA, when formed, was to promote responsible dog ownership, educate dog owners (and others) and spearhead the construction of an off-leash dog park in Chelmsford, MA.
In 2012, the CDA officially formed as a non-profit corporation and received IRS approval as a 501(c)(3) charitable community organization in 2013.
Although the membership remained small, the core members and board of directors ran fund-raisers, met with town officials, found an acceptable site and won a grant from the Stanton Foundation to build the park.
The agreement with the town was that park would be granted use of the land (2 acres) on the grounds of a former DPW site but that the CDA would maintain the park.
In 2015 construction started and, in June of 2016, the park was opened.
The CDA continued to maintain the park solely through volunteer efforts and donations from CDA members and other park goers.
In December 2019, the CDA decided to split the organization in order to separate the tasks of their charter. The CDA was to remains dedicated to supporting local dog owners in all ways, including community outreach and education while the Friends of the Chelmsford Dog Park (FCDP) was to take on the role to work with the Town of Chelmsford (through the Town’s Dog Park Advisory Committee (DPAC)) for maintenance and development of the park itself.
For 2020, the CDA focused on the second half of their charter: Supporting and educating dog owners and will be doing Comunity outreach and holding seminars on various dog-related topics. However, as of May 31, 2021,t he FCDP decided to dissolve and, after discussion with the DPAC, handed the responsibility for the maintenance of the Chelmford Dog Park back to the CDA.
The Events Committee Charter
The Chelmsford Dog Association supports responsible dog ownership by providing a venue for recreation, exercise, socialization and education for dogs and owners in the community.
The Chelmsford Dog Association supports responsible dog ownership by providing a venue for recreation, exercise, socialization and education for dogs and owners in the community.
We promote and support:
- Proper exercise and socialization of dogs to ensure psychologically and physically healthy dogs; leading to beneficial relationships with their families, neighbors and the community.
- Availability of legal, off-leash recreational areas for dogs to properly exercise in a safe and clean environment.
- Education and informational resources for dog owners and the community to encourage acceptable dog behavior.
- The rights and interests of dog owners and fostering the dog owner community.
- The health, welfare and humane treatment of dogs.