By this point, we’re all a little tired of being inside all day, pets included.  Even if you do manage to take your dog for a daily stroll around the neighborhood, walking the same route every day is bound to eventually get monotonous.  Luckily for Long Island Residents, there are plenty of high-quality dog parks within driving distance.  Here are some great spots to keep in mind the next time you want to take your furry friend on an adventure.

Old Bethpage Village Restoration- Bethpage

While the park itself is located on the property of a 19th-century living history museum, the dog park itself is free.  The park is divided into two fenced-in areas.  One of which for dogs over 30 pounds and one for dogs under 30 pounds.  Dogs are allowed off-leash within the fenced-in premises.  Like all parks, it’s important that your dog is socialized and willing to listen to your commands.

The ground is surrounded by tall trees that provide cooling shade on those hot summer days.  The ground is also made of wood chips and dirt, so you won’t have to worry about the hot ground burning your dog’s paw.  In the interest of being environmentally friendly, the park collects and filters rainwater that’s then available for the dogs to drink.  The local boycott troop has provided plenty of benches.  So you can sit back, get comfortable, and watch your dog have the time of their life.  For those who can’t legally pee on grass, there are restrooms located in the main building.  The park is open from 8:00-4:30 on weekdays and 9:00-5:30 on weekends.  

West Hills County Park Dog Run

If you’re closer to the Huntington area, West Hills is a fantastic choice.  They have two off-leash dog runs, plenty of space for hiking, all while surrounded by dense forest to give you the real feeling of the great outdoors.  Like Old Bethpage, they also separate their dog runs by size.  Dogs under 26 pounds enter the smaller run while those over 26 pounds run with the big dawgs.  Water fountains are available on-site to make sure your pet stays nice and hydrated after working up a sweat.  Bags and garbage cans are also provided to help you clean up after your barking buddy.  They don’t have specific hours but are open for business from sunrise to sunset.

Besides the dog run, the park has horseback riding, picnic areas, and hiking trails.  But, if your dog wants to join you for activities outside of the dog run, they’ll need to be leashed.

Blyndenburgh County Park Dog Run- Hauppauge

Blyndenburgh is another excellent place to let your dog run themselves ragged.  The runs are separated by the size of the dog, each area double gated with plenty of room to run around.  The enclosure includes a woods section, where your dog can explore and be themselves the way mother nature intended.  Drinking fountains are also accessible when your dog needs a water break.  Much to everyone’s delight, there’s no actual fee to use the dog run most of the time.  However, a green key card is required to use the facility on weekends in the summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day).

Conclusion

As the summer approaches, dog parks are a phenomenal way to make your pup’s day and get some exercise while you’re at it.  As is the case for any park, make sure your dog is socialized, vaccinated, and cleaned up after.