Visiting Our Greenspaces with Your Dog: Trail & Dog Park Etiquette
Trail and Greenspace Etiquette for Visitors with Dogs
It’s nice to be able to step into the great outdoors and experience all the joys of nature with your dog. While we support this 100%, we also want to protect the safety and enjoyment of wildlife in the park and other visitors on the trails.
Outside of the fenced areas at Remy’s Dog Park, all dogs must be kept on-leash and under the control of a responsible handler, preventing any rushing and jumping on hikers, cyclists, and other dogs on the trails.
Visiting with your dog(s)
- Make sure all dogs are current on vaccinations. An active flea/tick preventive medication is highly advised.
- Do not bring dogs in heat or showing signs of sickness into the greenspaces.
- Ask before approaching people with dogs. Not all dogs are friendly and may become defensive if approached unexpectedly or by someone unfamiliar to them.
- Always clean up after your dog by promptly removing any waste using a baggie and tying it tightly before tossing into a trash receptacle.
- Fill any holes that your dog digs. Digging destroys the turf and creates hazardous footing for both humans and dogs.
- Respect wildlife by keeping your dog on designated trails and avoiding interactions with wild animals.
Find the Perfect Fit at Remy’s Off-Leash Dog Park
Just like people, dogs come in all sizes with varying needs. With that in mind, Birmingham’s Remy’s Dog Park located at Red Mountain Park is designed to provide the ideal space for dogs to roam free with fenced play areas for large dogs, small dogs, and dogs with special needs. We ask pet owners to be mindful and enter the area that is most appropriate for the size and needs of your dogs.
A double-gate area is located at the entrance of each park where dogs are to be unleashed and leashed when entering and exiting the dog park area. Occupancy is limited to one owner and their dog(s) at a time, providing a secure, non-crowded space for dogs to acclimate. When using, make sure to secure the gates shut and move into the park, away from the gated area, to not crowd incoming dogs.
Benches and shade are available in each park for owners to rest and relax while watching their dogs get exercise and have some fun. Actively watch your dog to ensure its safety and that of other dogs and owners. If needed, intervene early if play becomes too rough. Leave food and treats at home to prevent food-related conflicts between dogs.
To help maintain Remy’s Dog Park, please do not use the park when the ground is wet or when maintenance is occurring. Glass containers are not allowed in the park.
Keeping Dogs Hydrated During Hot Summer Days
Water, water, and more water is needed to keep you and your dog hydrated during these hot summer months. While hiking with your dog, it's best to be prepared with your own supply. Water can be found at Red Mountain Park’s Frankfurt Dr. entrance at the restrooms and Ruffner Mountain’s 81 St. S. entrance at the pavilion. You will need to bring a water bowl and portable water with you to Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, where potable water is not available.
Watch for signs of your dog overheating. These could include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or difficulty walking. If your dog shows signs of heat stress, move to shade immediately, offer cool water, and seek veterinary care if needed.
By following these simple guidelines, every visitor can help keep Red Mountain Park, Ruffner Mountain, and Turkey Creek Nature Preserve safe, clean, and enjoyable for people, pets, and wildlife.
You can map out a path for you and your pet using our digital and printable trail maps.
We look forward to seeing you and your four-legged buddies on the trails!