The closure of Arko Dog Park was not an easy decision and we want to thank you for your understanding and patience as we navigate these new and uncertain times.
Starting Sunday May 31st, the Arko Dog Park will be open from 8:00am – 5:00pm.
We will be adding an extra 2 months onto your membership to ensure you receive the full membership you purchased. For example, if your membership expired on 8/01/20, it will now expire on 10/01/20.
The main shelter is open by appointment only. Please do not try to access the building without an appointment.
Staff will not be available at the park, so we ask members to cooperate in its use. The park's use will be monitored remotely and as long as members follow the rules, the park will remain open; repeated violations could result in access to the park being denied to all members.
Please read carefully:
- Park access will be available only from 8:00am – 5:00pm, and only to members in good standing.
- No day or week memberships will be given at this time.
- Capacity for the park will be as follows:
o No more than 10 people in the large park area at any one time
o No more than 3 people in each of the small park areas at any one time
- Members are asked to observe appropriate social distancingwhen entering and leaving the park, as well as during the time they are in the park
- Please wear a mask, for both your safety as well as the safety of others
- Members must bring their own chairs, play equipment, and poop bags and remove them as well as any trash when leaving the premises.
- Water will be available, but members are strongly encouraged to bring their own water bowls. None will be available in the park.
- The gazebo will be off-limits.
- The Porta-john will still be available in the parking lot; use is at the individual’s risk.
- Due to staffing limitations, WHS personnel cannot be at the Park on a regular basis; members are asked to help monitor the Park. Violations of rules should be reported at 828-264-7865.
These rules, along with our regular rules listed below, must be observed by all who use the Park.
- Dogs must be at least 4 months of age & have an up to date rabies vaccination
- Keep your dogs safe by leashing them up outside the dog park
- Owners must be present with their dog, and must be under you watch & control
- If your dog becomes aggressive, respect others by leaving before it gets out of hand
- Dog park privileges will be revoked after two incidents/complaints
- For their safety, children under 12 years old are not permitted
- Arko Dog Park is a food, alcohol, and smoke free environment. No exceptions
- You are responsible for any injuries or damages caused by your dog
- The park is monitored by cameras and your membership will be revoked if you are caught letting people in that do not have a membership
We hope that all members will use the park responsibly so it may remain open: failure to do so will result in the facility being closed to all members.
If you have questions or would like further information, contact us at 828-264-7865.
Thank you again and we look forward to seeing you back at the Park!
-Your Friends at Watauga Humane Society