Dempsey Dog Park

The Dempsey Dog Park is located in downtown Hannibal on Sixth and Ely Streets (behind Clemens Field and Norfolk & Southern Multi-Sports Park). This 1-1/3 acre fenced in dog park, features large open areas and separate areas for small and large dogs. Other amenities include a pen entrance to the fenced-in park, agility equipment, shade trees, picnic tables and strategically placed waste deposit stations and trash cans.

The hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (dawn to dusk). To report a dog problem or lost pet, call the Hannibal Police Department Animal Control (573) 221-0987 or the Parks & Recreation Department (573) 221-0154.

Dog Park Rules and Regulations

• Owners are legally responsible for their dogs and for any injury or damage they may cause.
• Keep your dog on-leash while entering and exiting the dog park. Carry a leash with you at all times.
• Limit three dogs per person.
• Supervise children closely.
• No food, treats, or glass allowed. v Never leave your dog unattended. v License and immunize your dog prior to entry and have proof of same.
• Please CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG. Doggie bags are provided.
• AGGRESSIVE DOGS ARE NOT PERMITTED.
• Female dogs in heat are not permitted.
• PUPPIES LESS THAN FOUR MONTHS OF AGE ARE NOT ALLOWED.
• Owners must stop their dogs from digging and must fill any holes caused by their dog.
• Professional trainers may not use the Dog Park for conduct of their business.

Dog Park Etiquette

In order to guarantee the success of the Dog Park and to enhance the overall satisfaction with the facility, guests are encouraged to follow these simple etiquette guidelines.

Observe the posted park rules. Under Missouri State Law, a dog owner is responsible for injury or damage inflicted by their dog.

Pick up and dispose of waste. This is the best thing you can do to improve the Dog Park. Clean-up bags are provided and will enhance the beauty/health of the facility. Please leave the site better than you found it!

Know your dog. Learn you dog’s behavior before introducing it to unfamiliar dogs. Teach your dog good manners by enrolling it in one of the local obedience schools. Always keep your dog in control and opt for a neutral area of the facility whenever possible.

Always keep your dog on a leash while outside the Dog Park. Upon entering the holding pen, remove the lease to ease anxiety of meeting strange dogs. Be sure to re-leash your dog before exiting the facility.

Closely supervise your dog. Stay close enough to control your dog within the park. Keep a collar on your pet at all times. Remember that you are responsible for your pet’s actions.

Be aware of different play styles. Like people, dogs behave in different ways. Always respect another dog owner’s wishes if they are not comfortable with how your dog is interacting with theirs.

What to do if a fight occurs. Do not reach in to break up fighting dogs. Attempts to distract the dogs by squirting water or blowing a loud whistle can often break up the activity. While dog fights are upsetting to everyone, remember to stay calm and objective. When warranted, exchange contact information with other dog owners.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO PICK UP AFTER YOUR PET!

Play Behavior Clues

The Four Basic Play Styles

Dogs play with one another in four basic styles. It’s important to be aware of the various styles when introducing your pet to other strange dogs.

1. Rough and highly physical body contact – These dogs play by pushing into one another’s space. There are lots of body contacts and hip checks, all done with a fair amount of brutality. You’ll see lots of hard impact and physical contact.
2. Chase or be chased – These dogs instigate a chase by running and egging another dog on. These dogs like to run and enjoy the excitement of being chased.
3. Mouth wrestlers – These dogs play by using their mouths. Usually one dog lies down with his hind end in the air, while the other dog dances around his head. The two interactions are the lying down role and the agile, leaping role. There is often vocalizing associated with this style.
4. Scare and be scared – These dogs enjoy poking and prodding another dog before freezing, and then suddenly bursting out in play.

Dog etiquette and play behavior clues are adapted from Successful Dog Adoption by Sue Sternberg.