Dogs in Bend Parks
Where can I
take my dog?
Dogs are permitted, on-leash, in all Bend Park &
Recreation parks. Dogs must be under complete control of
the owner by an adequate leash and owners must pick up after
their pet(s). Dogs are not permitted in any area specifically
posted as restricted.
Where can I find a dog rest stop?
For your convenience, plastic bags are provided
throughout the park system. Look for the green sign that
says "Dog E Rest Stop." Owners must remove their dog's
waste from all developed areas or public trails. Please
dispose of it in a garbage can or carry it out of the
park.
Where may my dog be off-leash?
Bend's first permanent, off-leash play area opened in the
summer of 2005 at Big Sky Youth Sports Complex. Big Sky
is located at 21690 Neff Road in Bend. The dog park
features: three acres fully fenced; grassy play area,
natural surfaces, walking trails, picnic tables, double gated
entry and a water spigot.
Dogs may be off-leash in areas designated as such, but must be under verbal control of dog owner at all times.
Future sites are currently being reviewed. Bend Metro Park and Recreation District remains committed to integrating off-leash amenities into the community and regional parks as opportunities and funds allow.
Is my dog required to have a license and rabies
vaccination?
Every dog within Deschutes County that has a set
of permanent canine teeth must be licensed. The license
tag shall be attached to a collar worn by the dog at all
times. Dog Licensing is enforced and may be punishable by
fines. For information on where to license your pet, call the
Deschutes County Licensing Office at (541) 388-6637.
What happens if my dog harasses or bites another
person or animal?
It is the responsibility of the handler (or
owner, if present) of any dog involved in a dog bite or dog
attack to:
1. Stop and offer assistance to the person attacked
2. Provide the other involved party with the involved
dog(s) license number(s) and/or rabies vaccination
number(s)
3. Provide the other party with their name and address
4. If serious injuries are involved, immediately report
the incident to emergency responders (park steward, police,
fire service)
5. Remain at the scene until responders arrive
6. Provide responders with their identification
information.
Who to call if a bite/attack has occurred: Bend Police Department 9-1-1
If your dog bites, injures or attacks another person or animal, if your dog places a person in fear of being bit or injured, or if your dog chases people, it is considered an animal nuisance and is punishable by fines.
Why we have these rules:
Bend Metro Park and Recreation District allows recreational use
consistent with resource protection and preservation. Hikers,
bicyclists, equestrians, runners, small children, senior
citizens, dog-walkers, photographers, people in wheelchairs,
bird watchers, and other nature study groups are all out on the
trails, seeking a chance to get away from the urban
environment. To help make multiple-use trails work, each user
must be aware of the needs of others.
Hiking tips for you and your dog:
Choose a hike within the limits of your dog's ability. Dogs like people need to be in condition for exercising. Keep in mind that dogs are sprinters by nature and are not built for long distance running.
Always carry water for your dog. Your dog will need a lot for summer hikes. Water from streams or ponds is not always available or safe to drink.
Restrict exercise in the heat of the day. Heatstroke is a great danger to dogs during the summer; they do not eliminate heat as efficiently as humans.
Check for and remove foxtails (weeds) and ticks after every hike. If you find ticks, try not to touch them with bare fingers. If you find one embedded, remove it with tweezers by pulling it straight out. Do not twist, squeeze, burn or use Vaseline. Ticks carry a variety of diseases that dogs can catch, including Lyme disease.
Be aware of wildlife on the or near the trail.
Several animals can be a potential threat to your dog(s)
safety. Keep a look out for snakes, spiders, coyotes,
bears and cougars. If you spot wildlife, keep your
distance. The Oregon Department of Fish and Game suggests
the following:
• Do keep your dog on leash and physically restrain
your dog at all times.
• Do not turn your back on a predator.
• Do keep your dog in your direct line of sight.
• Do be aware of your surroundings; don't forget to
look above and behind you.
• Do not approach potentially dangerous wildlife.
• Stay on the trail.
Who to call if you find a lost or injured domestic animal:
City of Bend Animal Control (541) 693-6911
Humane Society (541) 382-3537
Submit Comments
Bend Park & Recreation encourages park users to submit
comments, suggestions or concerns regarding dog issues or dog
park issues. Quality of service is our top priority. To
reach us, please email Erin Bennett, Park Steward Coordinator
at erin@bendparksandrec.org
or Paul Stell, Natural Resource Manager at paul@bendparksandrec.org
