Parks of Sedalia, MO
Getting outdoors with your dog provides a ton of benefits.
1) Strengthen your bond
By exploring new places and merely spending time with your dog, you are inherently building trust and strengthening your relationship together.
2) Exercise
For both you and your dog! Getting out and running around, or walks of any length are great for any pet. Plus, you get the added benefit of following along and putting some miles on your shoes too.
3) Socialization
While many think this means the dog has to be around other dogs or people, there is so much more to it. Part of socialization is exposing your dog to new things, places, smells, experiences. They grow comfortable and confident through new experiences. Make sure you bring treats to reinforce things they already know while exploring new areas. It helps bring familiarity to the situations and lets them know you're still there.
4) Mental stimulation
Outside is constantly changing in smells! Going on a smell walk allows your dog to stop and smell the literal roses! This has massive benefit for brain stimulation and engagement.
It's important to note that being outside also means that we have to take some extra precautions.
1) Here in town we do have leash laws that require dogs be kept on a leash when out.
2) Additionally, before heading out for a walk or exploring a park, make sure the leash and harness fit properly. You should be able to fit two fingers under them.
3) Be on the lookout for stray dogs and dogs off-leash. Staying vigilant while out will help make sure neither you nor your dog are caught off-guard from a stray. It's a good idea to cary a spray or noise deterrent and remember to never get in the middle of two dogs fighting.
4) If you do decide to take your dog to the dog park, remember that it's not always the best fit for everyone. Some dogs do not like group play, and others need more structured work on socialization and training before it will work. Also, make sure you're using the correct area for the size of your dog. While it may be cute to see a dane playing with a chihuahua, there's a big risk of injury that can easily be avoided.
While not everyone has a backyard, fenced or otherwise, Sedalia has some amazing parks to take your dog on your next outdoor adventure. Our Parks and Rec Department does a fantastic job keeping the parks clean, accessible, and awesome places to be.
Centennial Park
1400 E 16th St, Sedalia, MO 65301
Clover Dell Park (with dog park)
5301 W 32nd St, Sedalia, MO 65301
Housel Park
109 E Howard St, Sedalia, MO 65301
Hubbard Park
701 N Missouri Ave, Sedalia, MO 65301
Katy Park
2195 - 2239 Clinton Rd Sedalia, MO 65301
Liberty Park
500 W. 3rd. Sedalia , MO 65301
Vermont Park
W 14th St &, S Vermont, Sedalia, MO 65301
Katy Trail Sedalia Trail Head
Off Clarendon road and Southwest Blvd
Bothwell Lodge State Park
19349 Bothwell State Park Rd, Sedalia, MO 65301
Find out more about our awesome park by visiting the Sedalia Parks website.