Wethersfield Dog Park

Mill Woods Park
154 Prospect Street
Wethersfield, CT 06109

The Wethersfield Dog Park is in a designated part of Mill Woods Park. It is open every day from sunrise to sunset. The Wethersfield Dog Park is a place where well-behaved dogs can run off-leash safely, under the watchful eyes of their owners. The dog park has a separate area for small or timid dogs.

The mission of the Wethersfield Dog Park is to contribute to the health and well-being of people and their domestic dogs. By advocating for the design, construction, maintenance, and safe operation of a legal, enclosed, off-leash recreation area, the dog park provides several immediate benefits to the community:

• The park creates a safe and controlled environment for dogs to play and exercise
• It allows for the socialization of well-behaved dogs and their owners
• The dog park promotes responsible dog ownership by encouraging dog licensing, staying current on vaccinations, spay and neuter programs, cleanup and training
• The dog park provides elderly, disabled and apartment/condo dwellers with a place to exercise their companions.

Dog Park Rules

These guidelines will help ensure that the dog park remains safe and clean. Infractions of any of these rules can result in temporary or permanent loss of park privileges.

1. Dogs must display a valid license and up-to-date rabies vaccinations.
2. Dog owners are responsible for any injuries or damage caused by their dogs.
3. Dogs must be leashed when entering/exiting dog park.
4. Dog owners must carry leash and have dog within view and voice control.
5. Dogs in heat, aggressive dogs and puppies under four (4) months are prohibited.
6. Dogs must be removed from the dog park at the first sign of aggression towards a person or dog.
7. No more than three (3) dogs per person.
8. For the safety of all dogs, no choke, prong, pinch, or spike collars allowed in the dog park.
9. All holes dug must be filled in immediately.
10. Dog owners must immediately clean up after their dog and dispose of waste in proper receptacles.
11. No smoking, glass containers or food (people/animal) allowed in dog park.
12. An adult must accompany anyone under l5 years of age. Children must be closely supervised.

Helpful Tips

First Time Visitors

Many dogs will be experiencing the off-leash environment for the first time and may not be used to the excitement and level of energy. Please watch your dog closely. If your dog acts aggressively, please put the dog on a leash immediately and let it "cool down." It takes time for a new dog to become comfortable. Keep in mind everyone at the park wants the same thing—socialized dogs that can have fun playing together. If you are not sure how your dog will react, try to come to the park when few other dogs are there to keep the intimidation level as low as possible. You may wish to keep your first visit to the dog park rather short to minimize the stress on your pup. Leaving early when your dog is having a good time will make it more likely that your dog will be anxious to return for another visit.

Children

Children need to be closely supervised at all times. While they are welcome, child's play is not. This is a playground for dogs, not children. Be sure to teach your children how to behave properly in a dog park environment. Playful, unsupervised children and playful, unleashed dogs mixed together could result in injury. Please understand this area is provided for dogs to interact with other dogs and your children could be considered an interruption in dog play. If you choose to bring your children within the park, you should supervise them very closely! Teach your children proper dog park behavior.  They should not be allowed to run around, pick up and wave sticks, or approach animals that they do not know.

Please contact the Wethersfield Parks and Recreation Department at (860) 721-2890 for more information.