Dogs, Cats, and Other People by Matthew Margolis

Harry Truman said, "If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog." But what if it's your dog that wants a friend? Take him to the dog park, right?

One of the greatest myths about dog parks is that they are Ground Zero for the socialization of dogs. But the proper socialization of a dog requires a highly structured environment, something a dog park is far from. Just imagine a playground full of children ages 3 months to 15 years, with rules posted on a sign, but no one responsible for enforcing them. Scary, isn't it?

The reality of dog parks is that they are fenced-in areas that allow for the unsupervised mingling of dogs of all ages, sizes, temperaments and obedience levels. They are frequently carpeted in feces, as people enter the dog zone and surreptitiously break from the good habit of picking up after their pooch. They contribute to the spread of disease as a result of the unclean grounds and the willy-nilly union of healthy and unhealthy dogs. And they often serve as an arena for impromptu dogfights.

As is probably obvious by now, I am not a fan. But don't take my word for it; consider this recent letter from a reader:

"I read your column frequently and am always gratified to hear your advice for owners of dogs who are already aggressive. I often go to the park with my dog, Maya, who always minds me. But there is inevitably a person there with an aggressive dog. I can't tell you how many times an owner like that has laughed and said, 'Oh, he just thinks he's tough' or 'He's not being aggressive, he's just playing rough' after their dog has bitten or even taken down my dog."

This is why schools group kids in classrooms according to age, development and learning ability.

This is why children, in order to attend public schools, have to show proof of vaccination from certain diseases that would otherwise spread like wildfire.

This is why kennels separate some dogs from others and require proof of current shots for all dogs.

This is why both kennels and schools have someone present and in charge of enforcing the rules.

I recently asked a woman why she takes her dog to the dog park, and she explained that she wants her dog to have friends.

Her son interjected and said, "Mom, you go there to gossip with your friends." Kids really do say the darnedest things, don't they? But he's right: Most of the socializing that goes on at dog parks takes place between dog owners. People see it more as a chance to catch up with their friends than to play catch with their dog. Some are looking for love; still others will settle for free dog sitting.

Of course, many people take their dog to the dog park to soak up some sun and show their pooch a good time. And that's great, especially if your hometown keeps a clean, green dog park, where everyone pitches in and monitors their dog's behavior, and respects the standard rules and myriad personalities that come and go throughout any given day at the park.

If that doesn't describe your favorite dog park, you might consider looking for new stomping grounds or a new activity to do with your dog. Trust me, you'll miss your friends more than he'll miss his.

Woof!

Dog trainer Matthew "Uncle Matty" Margolis is co-author of 18 books about dogs, a behaviorist, a popular radio and television guest, and host of the PBS series "WOOF! It's a Dog's Life!" Read all of Uncle Matty's columns at the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com, and visit him at www.unclematty.com. Send your questions to dearuncle.gazette@unclematty.com or by mail to Uncle Matty at P.O. Box 3300, Diamond Springs, CA 95619.

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