Do’s

• Keep your dog on the lead before and after the play session starts and ends.

• Arrive on time. Failure to arrive at the designated time will mean no entry to the play session.

• Allow your dog to sniff the other dogs before coming into the play session.

• Pay attention. Once inside, it's your job to keep an eye out for your dogs, not other humans. Play Time sessions are really awesome, but they're not about human socialisation, always know where your four-legged friend is and what he’s doing. If you see trouble brewing, call him back right away. Supervise dogs when they are playing and interrupt any rough play.

• Read the signals. Not only should your dog play well with others if you plan to take him to the play session -- you need to be able to read canine behaviour too. Dogs at play have relaxed ears, wagging tails, and may "play bow" with their front end down to the ground. While growling and noise is common in play, snarling with lips curled back, staring or intently glaring, lunging and snapping and stiff body language isn’t. If you see these warning signs, redirect the dog with distractions such as clapping or loud noises.

• Always observe your dogs in the play session to monitor its interactions with the other dogs and watch for any potential health or behaviour problems.

• Be willing to leave a play session if you feel that your dog is either being a bully, being bullied, the play is getting too rough or your dog is just not having fun.

• Make sure your dog is not being bullied or learning bad manners from the other dogs. If you are unsure just ask.

• Make sure your dog is up-to-date on his/her vaccinations.

• Consult your veterinarian about your dog’s overall health before coming to a play session.

• Clean up after your dog always picks up your dog's poo.

• Teach your dog to come to you when called. Use a word or phrase he’s not likely to hear at the park. Reward him with extra-special praise during training.

• Take your dog’s temperament into consideration and don’t assume s/he’s having a good time – watch your dog’s demeanour and make an informed judgement about how happy s/he is to be there.

• Know what to do if a fight breaks out. Despite your best efforts, it can happen. Make sure you're ready.

• Give it a moment. Most dogs duels end as quickly as they start.

• If they go at it for more than a few seconds, clap or make a loud noise. Don't step in with your hands or body.

• If they’re still fighting after about 3 seconds, you and the other owner should approach the dogs from the rear. Gently grab their back legs at the top of the leg and lift them up like a wheelbarrow then start moving back. Don't reach for the collar. Your dog could bite you by reflex.

• Know when to go. Basic good manners should help you avoid most problems. A little extra effort on your part will help.

Don’t

• Bring your own toys in the play sessions. We have our own toys for dogs to share.

• Use treats when other dogs are nearby. Please consult the owners if you are wanting to give out treats.

• Allow a dog to bully another. If we find another dog is bullying we will ask the owner to put their dog back on a lead.

• Crowd around one area, spread out and try to walk around the unit to keep your dogs moving as well.

• Worry if some dogs don’t play with other dogs.

• Allow humping. Dogs do get excited, please stop humping immediately.

• No human food should be brought into the play sessions.

• Bring female dogs in heat/season- please wait at least 2 weeks after their season has finished.

• Take your dog to a dog play session if you already know they have a behaviour issue that could be made worse by putting them in a situation they are not comfortable in.

• Keep your dog in a play session when it is not happy.

• Bring more than 2 dogs per handler.

• Children under 10 must sit and watch. No running around, screaming or shouting.

Remember our play sessions are all about the dogs.

Not humans!