Asheville Parks and Recreation (APR) usually shares wellness advice focused on homo sapiens, but this week is for dogs. Asheville has no shortage of community members who treat their dogs like family – celebrating accomplishments, feeding them well, and ensuring they have a treasured place in the pack. Pets can enrich an individual’s quality of life by helping them deal with their anxieties, creating wonderful memories, and returning love and attention.
If your dog is one of your most reliable and consistent adventure partners, check out these opportunities to spend time together outdoors.
Dog parks
from Asheville public dog parks allow dogs plenty of off-leash exercise and social activities with other dogs, providing health and wellness benefits for them and their fellow humans. Remember that dogs must be leashed until inside specific fenced areas.
- APR manages dog parks located in Azalea Park (395 Azalea Road) and French Broad River Park (508 Riverview Drive).
- Buncombe County Recreation Services‘ first dog park recently opened just inside the city limits of Buncombe County Sports Park (58 Apac Cir.).
Greenways
Grab a leash and hike the eight (and growing) miles of Asheville paved greenways to enjoy shaded walks, flowing streams and the opportunity to connect with nature near you. Many greenways provide benefits for humans and dogs, such as connections to parks, river access, and public areas to hang hammocks.
Whereas public greenways and parks often have pet waste bags, it’s a good idea to bring lots of your own biodegradable bags to reduce poo-lution if doggie doo happens with no dispenser in sight. (It’s also the law of “doing” the right thing. A dog that picks up a grumpy dumpy in public without prompt solid waste pickup can result in a $50 citation in Buncombe County.)
canine costume party
APR is home to amazing blenders for dogs and their companions. Next on the calendar is the Burton Street Community Center puppy costume party from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 17. Dress up, join the parade and show off your furry friend’s tricks for treats.
Are you and your dog APR superfans? Pick up your bone shaped loose magnet to anyone community Center and show your support when driving or biking around town.
Twice a month, Asheville Parks & Recreation shares a resource or tip that can help in the development of intellectual, emotional, professional, environmental, financial, spiritual, physical or social well-being. For previous Wellness Wednesday articles, consult the archives.