Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Dog Park?

The Sparta Dog Park is not built yet. The Township has offered us the land at the end of Prices Lane, past the DPW. Get there one of three ways: Houses Corner Road, Route 15/Lafayette Road, or through Sussex Mills to Demarest Road, to a left onto Prices Lane.

How big is the Park?

Our fenced-in area will be about 2+ acres.  The "Any Dog Side" will be about 1.3 acres, and the "Small/Calm Dog Side" will be about 0.8 acres. Both sides will have double-gated secure entries and exits.

How do I make a donation?

Make a donation anytime at Pet Care Plus. They will accept your check donations, and can keep you up to date on the Park. Visit our Donate Now and Make It Happen pages for more details.

What about the little dogs? Won’t they get hurt?

Our Dog Park is going to have a "Small/Calmer" dog side. This side’s use is restricted to smaller dogs (about 35 pounds or less) and older, calmer dogs.  This side of the park will still be large enough for running and exercising.

When will it be built?

The Dog Park will be built when we have raised enough funds to build and maintain it. The timing of the Park opening is directly linked to fundraising. If you want to make a donation, please email us.  We are also seeking partners to donate significant material: fencing, signage, trash cans, plastic bags, bleachers, benches, quarterstone/qp, and grass maintenance.  Our Partners love the word of mouth advertising our members provide for them.

Are there rules?

Yes! There are a number of rules for using our park.  Some of the most noteworthy rules are: 

• Enter at your own risk.
  
• Dog owners are legally responsible for their dogs and injuries caused by their dogs. [NJ Statute 4:19-16]
  
• Dog owners MUST promptly clean up after their dogs.

Who can use the park?

The Dog Park is open to the public. That doesn’t mean it’s the right place for everyone. The Park is “Enter at Your Own Risk,” and dog owners are responsible for their dogs at all times.  Aggressive behavior will not be tolerated.  Any dog displaying aggressive behavior must be removed from the park.

Who can’t use the park?

The following dogs may not enter the Dog Park:

• Aggressive dogs,
  
• Dogs in heat,
  
• Unlicensed dogs,
  
• Unvaccinated dogs,
  
• Sick Dogs,
  
• Dogs with Parasites/Fleas.
  

Although unaltered dogs are allowed, dog owners must use discretion when allowing them to enter the park. Mounting behavior by unaltered dogs will not be tolerated and must be corrected immediately.

The following human behaviors will not be tolerated:

• Inciting chasing games;
• Laughing, screaming, yelling or causing a commotion that causes dogs to react;
• Eating;
• Laying or sitting on the ground;
• Wrestling with or playing with dogs on the ground;
• Running your dog on a leash in the gated areas.

Although some of these behaviors may seem like ways you are used to playing with your dog, they are inappropriate in a Dog Park.  Other dogs present may interpret these as opportunities for pouncing, chasing, or aggressive playing.

What can I do to help?

We need lots of help! We’re looking for members of our Committees: Fundraising, Public Programs, Rules & Usage, and Planning & Design. To join a Committee, or just pitch in, please contact us.

Can I bring my dog to the park?

All dogs entering the park must be: licensed, up to date on vaccinations, and able to socialize calmly with other animals.  Owners are responsible for their dogs. We can refer you to a great behaviorist and trainer to get any dog ready for this socialization.

What if my dog bites someone?

Most dog bites occur long after the beginning signs of aggression are displayed. Our tips on "Recognizing Aggression" were developed with dog behaviorists and trainers. These warning signs are the perfect time to address/correct behavior or remove a dog before a bite happens.  If you know your dog cannot socialize with others, consult a trainer/behaviorist before bringing him into the park.

Can I picnic at the park?

Eating food around dogs poses a dilemma. A lot of dogs lose their mind when they smell sirloin. For this reason, we are asking all users to restrict eating to outside the park.

Is my donation a tax write-off?

Until we finish the process for becoming a non-profit entity with the federal government, we have to say, "No."  If we are grated 501c3 status, your donation will retroactively be a tax write off, and we can provide a receipt.

What if another dog bites me or my dog?

The "Enter at Your Own Risk" means you are also responsible for removing yourself and your dog if you perceive a problem.  If you feel your dog is at risk, remove him and yourself immediately.