A Las Vegas Dog Park Helps Unleash the Fun

 

"Dogs Just Want to Have Fun" may not sound like the exact words of the Cyndi Lauper hit tune from the 80's, but a day at the dog park makes canine members of your household positively jump for joy. Lucky Las Vegas pups and their owners can enjoy a day at the dog park by visiting any of the more than two dozen located all around the Valley.

Large Places to Play
For a little slice of doggie heaven in a generously sized facility try Dog Fancier's Park (5800 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, open til 11 p.m. daily). This park features plenty of both fenced and unfenced grassy areas for dogs that love to run, and run…and run. All the standard amenities, such as a water spigot and abundant shady spots, can be found here. Dog etiquette classes are also held on a regular basis.   To the northwest, another of the Valley's larger dog parks, Barkin Basin at Bunker Park provides an eight-acre oasis of green amidst desert surroundings. The park offers three long rectangular runs for small and large breeds, doggie drinking fountains, plus pavilion seating where weary owners can rest.  Barking Basin is located at the intersection of Alexander Road and Tenaya Way, open til 9 p.m. daily until lighting is installed to accommodate longer hours.

Tried and True
Sunset Dog Park at Sunset Park (off Eastern Avenue at Warm Springs Road, open til 11 p.m. daily) has been around a long time, much to the delight of Las Vegas dogs and their owners.  This ever-popular puppy playground remains a classic favorite amongst the four-legged, furry crowd. Separate runs for small and large dogs help keep the peace. Trees and boulders accent the space.

More than Just your Average Dog Park
The Valley being well, the Valley, most parks consist of generally flat terrain. This makes the grassy slopes of Kellogg-Zaher Sports Complex (Washington Avenue near Durango, open til 9 p.m. daily) a somewhat more interesting expanse for doggie recreating Located between the soccer fields and playgrounds at the complex, a trip here offers ample activities for non-canines as well. Separate small and large dog areas feature three generously sized runs.  And out in Henderson, the 18-foot-long "Barkules" (rhymes with Hercules) dog statue greets visitors to the Bark Park at Heritage Park (Racetrack Road at Burkholder Boulevard, Henderson, open til 10 p.m. daily). This whimsically designed award-winning dog park includes three dog runs, an agility course, canine drinking fountains, shaded dog bone-shaped benches, drought-resistant grass areas and gravel beds.

Neighborhood Favorites
Many dogs and their families also enjoy some of the smaller parks around town such as Esselmont Dog Park (off Anthem Highlands Drive, Henderson) and the equally popular park at Cactus Wren (2900 Ivanpah Drive, Henderson).  Esselmont has two grassy runs, gravel paths and stays open until 10 p.m. daily. Cactus Wren is also open until 10 p.m. and offers separate space for smaller breeds, benches and doggie drinking fountains.
No doubt about it.  Las Vegas dog lovers and their pets can find plenty to love about the many recreational spots around the Valley designed for and dedicated to man's best friend.  And please don't forget to celebrate National Dog Day each year on August 26th!