One thing most residents of Cairns are in agreement with is that Cairns is a great place to get out and about. Whether its visiting the northern beaches, swimming holes at Crystal Cascades, walking around the botanical gardens or enjoying the wet tropics heritage areas you can be assured that you will not be disappointed with the natural beauty Cairns has to offer.

However for our canine companions most areas are off limits and it is becoming increasingly harder to find safe, suitable places to allow our dog’s the freedom off leash and the opportunity to play with other doggie friends.

Off leash dog areas, or dog parks, provide owners with a safe and secure area where they can gather to exercise and watch their dogs interact with others.

• A well exercised dog is a happy, healthy, quiet dog. Dog Parks provide dogs with the space and freedom to run off leash with other dogs, whilst being safely supervised.
• A well socialized dog is less likely to develop behavior problems such as aggression and excessive barking.
• For many people, their dogs are their only companions. For some, going to the dog park gives them a reason to get dressed, go out, socialize with others and play with their dog. Dog parks have been proven to promote physical fitness and improve the mental state of owners.
• Dog parks aid the promotion of responsible pet ownership in the community. They provide opportunities for people to chat and share valuable information about pet ownership and can bring people together and create a greater sense of community.

• Ensure your pet is up to date with their annual vaccinations, heartworm prevention, have been treated for fleas and ticks and have been wormed in the last three months.
• Dogs should also be desexed.
• Keep young puppies away from dog parks until they are four months old and have been fully vaccinated
• Scoop your dogs poop.
• Know your pet’s temperament – you can’t predict how other dogs may behave so be sure to consider your dogs temperament and how they will handle any situations that may arise.
• Don’t let your dog rush to new dogs entering the gate. This is confronting and threatening for dogs wanting to enter the park.
• Fully supervise and keep control of your dog at all times.
• Interrupt your dogs play to allow calm down time if they are becoming overexcited.
• Remove your dog if it appears afraid or begins to show signs of aggression.
• Leave special toys at home to avoid problems.
• Ensure your dog will have access to water.
• Above all else have fun!

The Cairns area has many off leash areas to choose from. To obtain a list of off leash areas available in our local community, visit the cairns regional council website.