Judging by the number of animal rescues and pet-related businesses in Madison, we’re a bunch of pet-happy residents. It would be interesting to know the number of pets per household here in Madison; I imagine we’d be at the top of the list nationwide.
Just as they all go to heaven, all dogs need exercise. Yup ― even those that people swear are the ideal apartment dwellers because of their lack of the need to stretch their legs and run. Whether your pooch is a cuddly Maltese or an uber energetic border collie, getting outdoors with it (if you can stand the humidity!) is not only good for the dog, but for the person it owns as well.
The City of Madison offers eight off-leash dog areas in various parks. You’ll need a dog license to take advantage of these areas and you can buy one online from the City Treasurer. You may not qualify for a license if you own a puppy that is too young to have had its first shots.
Madison parks with off-leash areas for dogs include:
Of these eight dog parks in Madison, the following three are the most popular:
Warner Park
Yelp reviewers don’t pull any punches when it comes to reviews so you can pretty much depend on any review average of 4.5 to 5 stars. Warner Park’s off-leash dog park garners the former. Dog owners love the fact that it contains areas for both small and large breed dogs. That’s becoming pretty standard, however in dog parks, so we dug deeper to figure out why so many Madison dog owners love Warner Park.
Lake access seems to be a hot button for many. The gradual drop off from the shore allows dogs to wade or, for the more adventurous, get a gradual introduction to deeper water. Speaking of water, bring your own and a bowl for the pooch. Find Warner Park’s dog area off the parking lot off of Woodward Dr. in Madison.
Sycamore Park
East side Madison residents have the amazing Sycamore Park at their backdoor – home to one of the city’s favorite dog parks. It’s big, it’s fenced and it offers poop bags – what more could a pet owner want? You will need to bring your own water, but there are bowls on hand from which the pooch can drink said water.
When he’s done socializing with the others, take to the trail or camp out at a picnic table and relax. There are two entrances to the Sycamore Park off-leash dog area – one off of Sycamore Ave. (this entrance has a parking lot) and the other on Pulley Dr.
Quann Park
Located behind the Alliant Energy Center, let the dog off the leash and watch him bound through 50+ acres of fields and open space. Or take to the dirt trail for a 20-minute stroll.
There’s running water here so just bring the water bowl (and some poop bags). You’ll find two parking lots as well, one off Expo Way and the other on the opposite side of the park, on Wingra Creek Pkwy. Cross over the bridge, and you’re there!
Posted by Jolenta Averill on