DOG PARKS: Off leash in Tacoma.
At the moment, Tacoma's only official dog park is the old Rogers School. That's E. 34th and L St. (From McKinley or Pacific Ave., head east On 38th. Turn left (ie north)on L St. and park when you see the fencing.) It's a bit under 1 acre, fairly well-organized, and has a water source from April to October. Most dog lovers have jobs so it's busiest ca 5 PM and on weekends. Completely fenced althoug small dogs can escape through the east gates. (But who would want to escape from Paradise?)
The big park in the area is at Lake Waughop. Take Steilacoom Blvd. and go west past the Lake and past the Thunderbird Shopping Center. Just past Albertson's ( on your right) turn left at the stoplight. Make an immediateright and drift along the paved road past the soccer fields and playgrounds, etc. See an old red barn and look for parking. Walk the gravel lane ca 200 yards.
This is some 8 acres reserved for dogs with a separate yard for small ones. Busy at all times. Hard to find but your 4 legged pals will appreciate your effort.
There is an effort to create a park at the Chambers Bay Gold Course. Drive along Grandview heading south from Cirque Dr. Just before the road takes the big bend to the left, you'll see the old office building way off to the left. (formerly HQ for the gravel co.). Park there and head down hill and cross over toward the water,looking for the fencing.
It's not much; just a fenced in yard with no water, no benches, and no doggie amusements. But at least we are trying. And there's a standing invitation for those who would want to enlist and try to create a larger and more commodious facility.
(For those you want to live dangerously") go to Owen Beach (Pt. Defiance Park) at low, low tide. That means summer months. Walk the Beach toward the Point. About 1/3 of a mile after the picnic area, you will pass a promontry that usually requires climbing through a fallen tree. After that your dog will be mainly off the leash as there is nothing but sand and surf all the way to Salmon Beach. This is not quite legal but that is up to you.
(If your hound scales the cliff, you probably want to call him back as there is auto traffic up there.)
Finally, if you want to give your dog(s) a real treat: take the Mukilteo Ferry to South Whidbey Island and proceed to Double Bluff. There, the locals have created a spacious and wonderful dog park where the little monsters can run for miles, chase in the salt water, and have a rattling good time.
Very crowded at peak times. You may need to park up the lane a ways and walk in. Please observe all signs and courtesies; be respectful of neighbors and their privacy. Sanitary faciilities and bathing beach included at no extra cost.
Your dogs deserve this. AND, the respective park authorities deserve an occassional thank you and compliment.
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