Dog Park

Dog Park

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The Dog Park is a fenced area approximately 2.5 acres in size and is located at Lions Park on the corner of Willmar Avenue and 22nd Street SW, near the Swansson Field Complex and Baker Field.

The Park includes a large dog area, a small dog area, pet waste bags, and a trash container. A shelter area and water fountain (seasonal) are also located on-site.

The Dog Park is open daily from dusk to dawn.

The City of Willmar is not responsible for any injuries/damages to dogs or owners while using the off-leash dog park.

Off-Leash Dog Park Rules

  • All dogs must be properly licensed and vaccinated. Dogs must wear a collar displaying valid tags and identification at all times.
  • Owners or handlers must be 16 years of age and are legally responsible for their dogs and any injuries or damage caused by their dog(s).
  • Children under the age of 13 must be supervised by a parent or guardian and not left unattended at the dog park. Children should be instructed about proper behavior around dogs: no running or screaming.
  • Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the dog park. No dog is to be off-leash in the parking lot or other park areas.
  • Maximum of three dogs per owner or handler. Owners must remain with their dogs inside the fenced dog park areas at all times. Leaving dogs unattended is prohibited.
  • Dogs under 4 months of age, unhealthy dogs, pregnant dogs, and female dogs in heat are prohibited.
  • Dogs with a known history of aggressive behavior are prohibited. If your dog becomes unruly, please leash and remove your dog from the park at the first sign of aggression.
  • No human food is allowed in the dog park as its presence may incite aggressive behavior.
  • Alcohol and glass containers are not allowed in the park.
  • Owners must clean up and dispose of all pet waste.
  • Be courteous to other dog handlers and monitor dogs playing together. Cooperation between dog owners is expected, including keeping order and enforcing dog park rules.
  • In case of emergency, call 911.
  • Dog licenses are available from City Offices - 333 SW 6th Street or your local vet.



Things to keep in mind if your dog becomes aggressive...

  • Leash your dog immediately. A "time out" in your vehicle or a few leashed laps around the park should redirect their energy.  
  • If your dog causes several aggressive incidents with more than one dog, it should be leashed and taken home for the day.
  • If your dog causes serious aggressive incidents on three or more separate visits to the dog park, please stop coming to the park until you have consulted an animal behaviorist or trainer and corrected the behavior. Dog parks are NOT the place to work on your dog's behavior issues or problems.
  • If you witness behavior that concerns you, calmly approach the owner and respectfully share your concerns. 

Additional tips for visiting the park...

  • You may get dirty, so dress accordingly. 
  • Be careful when sitting items on the ground or benches. Some dogs view any object on the ground as a toy and will pick up and chew on them. Best to avoid bringing personal items to the dog park.
  • Secure your vehicle by closing windows and locking doors. Do not leave valuables in your vehicle while it is unattended. 
KC DOG (Kandiyohi County Dog Owners Group)

KC DOG (Kandiyohi County Dog Owners Group) is a group of passionate dog owners, dedicated to the development of the off-leash dog park in collaboration with WCER and the City of Willmar.
 
If you are interested in becoming involved, call WCER at 320-231-8490 and ask for Pam, or send an email. Click HERE to "like" KC DOG on Facebook.