Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful information as you plan your visit
My dog is reactive – is this suitable for her?
People with reactive dogs are why we are here! We had so many enquiries from owners with reactive dogs about using the Horse Agility space – and the issues they face, we decided to refence and invite dogs as well! The biggest thing to know is that you are not alone! There is a 15 minute buffer between sessions, to allow time for dogs to leave before the next session begins. We have dogs – but they come inside when we have visitors in the Playground. We also have horses – they are very familiar with dogs – so they don’t run. They often will come up to the fence line to say hello. There is a metre gap between fences. We do ask that you don’t encourage them to come over – because they haven’t had a fright, they are relaxed and we don’t want that to change! While your dog might be friendly – the next one may not – and be a bit overwhelmed at their approach.
I have a chihuahua – can he get through your mesh?
No, the mesh is 2cm wide and 4cm high. It does go to the ground. Please keep an eye on your dogs for any digging under the fences activity. The only real potential for small spaces escape is under the automatic gate (where the arm is). We recommend checking out the Playground for any escape risks before you let them of the lead on your initial visit. This will also be discussed when I meet you. If you think there might be an issue – we will happily refund your money!
Is there horses and dogs in the Playground at the same time?
Absolutely not! Unless they are horses and dogs from the same household – or friends already familiar with each other. It is a private park – and only you, or the people/furry companions you invite, are with you at the same time. There will never be someone you don’t know in the Park at the same time as your booking.
What is your closest township?
Our closest township is Victor Harbor – about 10 minutes away.
I’m on a holiday with my dogs, is having a lead free run at your dog park beneficial for them?
Most definitely, yes! Although dogs love travelling with you – it can be a bit overwhelming being in strange and unfamiliar places. Most of their time is spent on a lead – or a car. Being able to run free and have the opportunity to explore at their own pace, alleviates that build up of stress and release some of that energy.
I have an older dog – she doesn’t really run a lot, but she tends to get knocked over at public dog parks by more boisterous dogs, would your Park be suitable?
Yes, even though she may not run a lot – she will love taking her time exploring the area at her own pace. Just monitor her in that she doesn’t overdo it – and give her lots of rest breaks. There is a range of sitting spots around the park – so you can both take a break, sit down and just enjoy being outdoors – with no risk of her being knocked over by other dogs. Some older dogs may also be nervous (they don’t know there is no unruly dogs about!) So again just take your time and let her build up her confidence. I have had clients tell me on the second or third visit their dogs act as if it’s the own personal territory!
My dog is very strong, and I have difficulty holding him in public spaces?
This is actually quite common – and it can make taking them for a walk very stressful. To enter the Playground you simply have to type in a code (which you can do through the window) the gate will open and close behind you – so you can stay secure in your car until the gate has closed and then let your dog out. We also run regular training days with a variety of trainers who can also help.
My dog is an escape artist – is it suitable for him?
The short answer is, No. The fences are 1.5 m high, with a white electric strand around the top. Some dogs will jump anything – or dig under anything and if you think your dog falls into that category – its not suitable. We have horses, the neighbour has stock and although we are off the main road – it is not far away and we don’t want any accidents!
How does the Automatic gate work?
There is a pole with the code box attached to it just outside the gate leading into the Playground. When you arrive, you just need to wind down your window (ensure your dog is retrained – and doesn’t jump out of the window!) and type in the code. The gate will open and stay open for 30 seconds. We recommend driving into the Playground and park facing the gate (not within the range of where the gate closes). Sometimes 30 seconds can seem a long time, so by facing the gate, you know it is closed before letting the dogs out! We you are ready to leave, pop everybody back in the car and drive towards the gate. You will see a grey button on a pole just outside the range of the gate, again you can reach it through your open window. Simply push that and the gate will open (again for 30 seconds and then close).
Is there a toilet?
Yes! A very important feature for the humans!
Is there anywhere undercover?
Yes! We have a lovely pergola with table and chairs (seating for 8) It’s a great spot to have a picnic – you are welcome to BYO. And a terrific spot to host groups – for birthdays, litter reunions, gotcha days and we also have a lot of trainer who will use it for training classes. Its where our fun photo booth is located – which adds to the celebratory vibe! There is also a lot of natural shelter with our beautiful 100 year old River Red Gums dotted around the park.
I have a group that I would like to join me, but it is difficult to organise – can people make their own booking for an event?
Yes, certainly – it can be tricky to organise other people, everyone is just so busy these days! If you contact us we can create you own event (must be over 5 dogs) and everyone does their own booking. Saves you having to chase funds and work out numbers!
Do you have any weather policies – can I refund or schedule if the weather is hot or cold?
We have both a hot weather and cold weather policy – with a “catastrophic” fire risk day all bookings are cancelled. We don’t offer refunds – but you can reschedule your booking easily. Rainy weather is harder to predict and varies a lot throughout the area. We have some people who rug up and brave the colder weather – and some who reschedule. Its up to you (and more so – your dog!) During hotter weather we recommend coming earlier or later in the day – we are open 6am to 8pm during Daylight saving – and it’s a beautiful time to be out and about. We have a lot of water options – a big water tank, a smaller paddle pool for the smaller dogs (which the bigger dogs also seem to love!) and a range of sprinkler and misting systems. These water features tend to slow the more active dogs down – as they focus on these, but still be mindful that they don’t overheat.
Ready to book?
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