A Pet Owner’s Responsibility

More and more we see people walking with their dogs. A combination of attachment to your pet and Marco Island being the ideal location and climate to walk with them, it is no wonder citizens voted to create Canine Cove inside of Mackle Park years ago. It’s a great way to spend time with your dog, let them burn off energy, run and play. 

In fact, Canine Cove is even home to a few “playgroups” with people who regularly enjoy the camaraderie of other dog owners while their dogs get to be off-leash free to romp. The dogs can play in a safe enclosed area, which is separated into two sides, depending on the size of your dog (over 25 pounds or under 25 pounds). The dog park was designed with safety in mind, with double gates so you can unleash and leash your dog safely, water fountains and ample supplies to clean up after your pet, as well as seating for dog owners. 

Recently, a labradoodle named Armani was at the dog park and is a regular there. Some of the usual labradoodle owners were also there enjoying the evening when suddenly a larger dog attacked. The attack broke the skin and left a gash in the labradoodle’s muscle. Since Armani was injured badly, he was traumatized and left in a trembling ball in the grass. The owner had no choice but to pick him up, rushing him to an emergency vet service. The dog received 12 stitches, drainage tubes and requires follow-up vet visits and monitoring. 

Unfortunately, in emergency situations like this no one thinks to stop to get names and contact information. There is no time for an immediate recap of the chain of events. A similar report just came out of Fort Myers, where a German Shepherd attacked a service dog while its owner, confined to a wheelchair, was unable to stop the attack. As similarly reported in that case, Armani’s owners weren’t concerned about the vet bill as much as they were relieved the dog survived and wasn’t injured more severely. However, it would be courteous if the owner of the dog involved or any witnesses to the attack would stop by the park office and leave their name and number. The offending dog owner should present proof of rabies vaccination, distemper, etc., at a minimum. 

Obviously, anytime you have a group of dogs together there is the risk of something going wrong, especially if one of the dogs wants to dominate. You enter the dog park at your own risk. If your dog becomes aggressive around other dogs, it is a clear indication you should stay away from group situations until your dog can handle the stress of a pack without showing this type of behavior. Aggressive behavior is not usually the “other dog’s fault,” but a matter of wanting to dominate. 

Remember, YOU are solely responsible for your pet’s behavior. Other owners will note the offending dog and if there is a repeat incident, Collier County Animal Control will be called by park staff and they will investigate. The county could possibly quarantine the dog or assess fines after their investigation, if warranted. If you see a dog attack another dog in Canine Cove, report it to the office immediately. 

By entering Canine Cove you are agreeing to abide by the dog park rules. Be aware and accept your own risk. 

Rules For Inside Canine Cove 

Please use common sense and courtesy when using Canine Cove.

1. Dog owners and handlers enter Canine Cove at their own risk. Dog owners and handlers are responsible for and liable with respect to the actions of their dogs and any damage or injury to person or property caused by them. 

2. Dogs and/or their owners or handlers who violate these rules are subject to removal from Canine Cove. The City of Marco Island reserves the right to refuse entry to dogs and/or their owners or handlers for the reasons of health, safety, and prior rule violations, or for the comfort of all patrons and/or their pets. All dogs must have current vaccinations, be licensed, free of parasites, infections and

3. Must wear a collar with id and current license tag.

4. All dogs must be leashed within the parking areas, and when entering and departing the off-leash areas of Canine Cove. Dogs must be in view of and within voice control of their owner or handler at all times.

5. Gates to the off-leash areas shall be kept closed at all times. 

6. No aggressive dogs, female dogs in heat or puppies under four (4) months old are allowed in Canine Cove.

7. All dog waste must be picked up promptly everywhere in the park including the walkways. Non-compliance may result in a $500.00 fine.

8. No children under the age of four (4) are admitted into the dog park. Children under the age of twelve (12) must be accompanied by an adult.

9. No more than two dogs per person may enter Canine Cove at all times. 

10. Dogs must be kept in the appropriate 'small' dog (under 25 pounds) or 'large dog' (25+ pounds) section of Canine Cove.

11. Canine Cove may be closed for routine maintenance and City sponsored events.

12. No smoking or food of any kind is permitted in Canine Cove.

13. Canine Cove is open from 8:00 a.m. till dusk.

14. In case of emergency, call 911.

From the City of Marco Island website.