Pets can be a great source of happiness; they provide unconditional love, constant companionship and make us laugh when we are feeling down. On Love Your Pet Day we would like to take a moment to acknowledge all pets great and small and the good they provide to our mental health and wellbeing.
Let’s take a specific look at the special relationship with the canine variety and share how they can enjoy Red Deer’s outdoor spaces with their human counterparts. One thing dog owners know for certain is that their pooches can get a little destructive if they don’t get enough exercise. Here in Red Deer, we are fortunate to not only have an abundance of accessible trails for dog walking, but we also have two incredible off-leash dog parks where they can run freely, explore and socialize.
Three Mile Bend Recreation Area - Off-Leash Park is a dog lovers paradise, with numerous ponds and a 3.4 km walking loop. The area is always well kept (remember your waste bags for Rover), with plenty of parking, washroom facilities, benches, and picnic tables. Please make sure you are with your dog at all times as this area is not fenced and there is plenty of wildlife sharing the park. In the summer, you never have to worry about the heat, as the area is well shaded and provides many chances for your four-legged friend to take a swim and cool off. The fun doesn’t stop when the snow starts to fly, a large portion of these trails are cleared in the winter, so even on those frosty mornings you and your pup can still make a mile.
Oxbows Off-Leash Dog Park offers diverse terrain, winding trails, and a designated small dog area; although Oxbows is smaller than Three Mile Bend, it is designed exclusively for dogs and is fully fenced. You will also find an agility park onsite for some unique play and training opportunities to take your dog through its paces.
If your pup doesn’t do well off-leash, don’t worry, there are plenty of parks and trails available for a leashed stroll. Like Mackenzie Trails Recreation Area an oasis in the city, or Heritage Ranch with extensive tree-lined paths, or perhaps Maskepetoon Park with diverse landscapes. In the winter the City of Red Deer clears over 23 km of selected trails throughout the city, giving you and your hound many options to get out and exercise any time of year.
Just remember, leashes are mandatory and the City of Red Deer’s Guidelines and Rules must be followed.
So whether you own a dog, a cat, a ferret or maybe a pet pig, give them a little extra attention (and maybe a special treat) this Love Your Pet Day and make the most of your special bond. Share with us how you and your furry friends celebrate Love Your Pet Day as you #ExploreRedDeersBackyard
