At Shoreline Happy Paws, we’re reluctant – to say the least – about dog parks. The reason dog parks send a chill down my spine is because many of the dogs (and dog parents) that frequent dog parks shouldn’t. That’s right – many of the usual suspects at dog parks are dogs that are undersocialized, reactive, and, sometimes fully dog-aggressive. Their pet parents might think they are doing them a favor, but these dogs have no place at off-leash dog parks because they can be a danger to themselves and others. Speaking of pet parents, some of these parents add insult to injury by taking their dogs to dog parks and then scrolling their phones or chit-chatting with the other humans at the park rather than keeping an eye on their dog. All that said, I have heard good things about one particular dog park in our area and today, in honor of Take a Walk in the Park Day, which was celebrated yesterday, March 30th, we’re discussing Bailey’s Dog Park in Clinton, CT.
Bailey’s Dog Park in Clinton, CT
Bailey’s Dog Park on BringFido
Bailey’s Dog Park in Clinton, CT earns 4.5 bones on BringFido. If you’re unfamiliar, BringFido is an excellent resource for pet parents – namely dog parents – that want to include their dogs in their day-to-day and travel. It lists pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, activities, and more. Unfortunately for the CT Shoreline, BringFido doesn’t list much in Old Saybrook, Old Lyme, and neighboring areas. While we have plenty of pet-friendly spots, many of these spots haven’t taken the time to list themselves on the site.
Thankfully, Bailey’s Dog Park has a number of entries from pet parents that frequent the park. Many of them like the agility equipment that their dogs can access while visiting. One user, Rick, reviews the park as follows: “Only one fenced area to play, but plenty of ramps, tires, tubes and toys to use. Water on site and plenty of shade!” Water and shade are key to any dog park but having access to ramps, tires, etc. can really increase your dog’s overall satisfaction, especially if you bring treats and pretend you’re at a dog agility competition. Who knows?! Maybe you start there and end up making this a hobby you and your best friend can share!
Bailey’s Dog Park Meet-Ups
Another review from a user named Christy states, “A group of us bring our pups almost every day; we’re frequent fliers. The dogs are terrific and their humans watch them very closely. Part of the park its sand, the remainder is wood chips. No separation between large and small dogs but they all get along beautifully. Lots of toys, a water spigot and a small kiddy pool for those who insist on swimming in the drinking bowls. Park is clean, there’s plenty of seating for humans to rest and poop bags are available. Come join us; meet new friends, canine and human. We’re love it!”
I can’t love this review enough because it, first of all, reiterates the amenities offered, but also addresses the age-old question of how to properly dog park with your dog. She states that humans watch their pets closely and that, while the dogs are not separated by size, they all get along well. Reading this makes me think Christy and her crew understand dog on dog interactions and puts my mind at ease. Responsible pet parenting is key at dog parks and it sounds like Bailey’s Dog Park brings together some great pet people in Clinton.
Bailey’s Dog Park Maintenance
Another couple of reviews of Bailey’s Dog Park cited that pet parents and “volunteers” do a great job maintaining the park. I think that speaks to the caliber of pet parents frequenting this park. I’ve heard horror stories about parks that are unkempt, muddy. dirty, and just overall gross. But, this park sounds lovely with its dedicated caregivers that keep the bowls and kiddy pools refreshed with the park’s running water. Because there are poop bags available, the park is poop-free and, surely, a more pleasant experience than most. While I’m not big on dog parks and prefer to, instead, take my dog hiking or for a long walk, I would consider visiting Bailey’s Dog Park just on the basis of its excellent reviews!
The Best Pet Care in the Connecticut Shoreline
Bringing together unfamiliar dogs to a park is not something I fully recommend, even with a great park available. But, if you are interested in experiencing or frequenting a dog park, Bailey’s sounds like a great place to start. Just remember to keep an eye on your dog(s,) stay close to them to intervene if needed, avoid distractions, and head home when something feels off. Trusting your gut is key to ensuring your dog’s safety in a dog park. If, like me, you’re not convinced, opt instead of a dog walk or hike and consider our services if time is tight!
Shoreline Happy Paws is currently accepting new dog walking, dog hiking, and cat sitting clients! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your cat(s) up for success. Existing clients may book services by logging in to your client profile.
We serve the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank
