I've been there and it's great! My parents live nearby and I used to live about 15 minutes from there several years ago.
The others are right about the exposure. Not just the stuff in the dirt and mud, but there are lots of homeless people living in the woods in camps with dogs that sometimes roam around with their packs of pitbulls. I know those dogs are not vaccinated. I have also seen lots of fights break out and have had my dogs get jumped there as well.
Many dogs also get lost as it is so vast and open and often dogs will take off to play with others and with that grass, the bushes, and the berms, as well as the size of the location, you've got to be very careful that your dog doesn't disappear. It is not uncommon to see lost and confused dogs in the parking lot or owners frantically looking for their dogs in the fields. Also, the homeless camps are full of drugs, garbage, and human waste that dogs would love to get into. Just a few months ago the County had to pay out $60,000 to clean up a camp. It can get pretty bad and you have to be careful (Google it -- but it's technically the Sandy River Delta). I think the camps are on the other side where people generally don't go, but I am not positive.
In the summer that place is hot as Haites and your black pup won't do well past about 10AM.
And, finally, when you get to the river, be careful of dead fish. It's a salmon poisoning buffet down there during certain times of the year. There are also areas with steep banks and fast water, so be careful, especially with an inexperienced pup.
This all sounds terrible -- sorry! But, it's a good place as long as you get there super early. When I go, I get there around 7AM. It is not crowded and it's more often than not, the nicer, more socialized dogs early in the mornings. I'd wait until he's not only fully vaccinated and his immune system is established (the number of dogs that go there, the wildlife, and the mud are astonishing), but until he's at least nine months old, more like a year. I have found that my male Lab puppies, in big groups, tend to get bullied. So, I just do play groups with dogs I know one-on-one, as well as some social time during puppy pre-school, and supervised puppy romps, and avoid dog parks like the plague until mine are at least a year old. Also, if you do things right, he should have a stronger recall to keep him from getting lost, and running toward unfriendly dogs, dangerous water, and dead fish. I'd also bring a buddy and go with a group of people and dogs so he's less likely to take off to play with others.
I made the mistake of taking Sam to dog parks as a puppy and he was always bullied. I just started occasionally taking Linus to 1000 Acres as well as to a dog park in the area that is 10 acres, un-fenced, and walking distance to the river. He's 15 months now and well trained and well socialized, so even though he's intact, things are pretty much drama-free. I only take him super early when there's not a lot of people, and the dogs are nice and well-socialized. Linus isn't a "dog's dog" so everyone ignores him. Sam is a social butterfly, however. If I am at a dog park and I see bullies, I walk down to the river and let them swim, or I leave. It's just not worth it.
There are a few puppy romps in the area. Just Google it. There's one at the humane society and one on the west side that's pretty good. I haven't been in a while.
Thanks for the kind words and advice everyone. I would never want anything to happen to Chopper. I love that little guy. I do take him to get his shots as recommended by the vet. I also have him checked for worms every time. When walking him I never let him get too far away from me and I'm always on the constant watch out for aggressive dogs. Chopper is very good about following me everywhere I go. I must say 1000 Acres was a pleasant experience. It was amazingly clean of poop and I saw no homeless people. The salmon have not completed their run so the Sandy River was running slow and clean. Having said that, I will heed everyone's advice and not be returning for a while. As much fun as Chopper had on the trip, it is not worth the risk.
Oh by the way, Labradorks love your dog's chops!
What a park, Fun.
It's a good spot under the right circumstances. There's just a lot of risk with a puppy. It's a bit of a weird place, too, to be honest. Going super early has made a difference, but I am still cautious and go with groups, also because of the homeless camps. Have you been to Schroeder's Den in HIllsboro? They have a weekend puppy romp and I've always liked it for my pups. The one at the humane society is OK. Gets really crowded.
Labradorks,
No, I have not tried Schroeder's Den, but I will check it out. Thanks for the heads up.
^^This!!!! Please wait 2 weeks after the last set of puppy shots to take your puppy to public places like this. They really need to stay in your own yard until then. Also, do not allow your vet to give multiple shots at one time. Insist on waiting at the very least, 2 weeks, before the rabies shot is given. Many vets routinely give the rabies along with the last set of puppy shots and that is not a good idea. If your vet tries to talk you in to Lepto and Lyme vaccines along with the rabies it is best to decline, go home and research these vaccines before giving them. It is really important to pay attention when shots are given, many people don't even realize the vet is giving multiple shots until it is too late. Some vets will argue with you, even try to bully you, be prepared and stand your ground! It is your puppy and the vet works for you!
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Maxx and Emma Jean
Ozzy - 10/2002 - 06/2011 - Rest well my sweet boy. You are forever remembered, forever missed, forever in my heart.
Thank you Maxx&Emma! The vet has only given Chopper one shot at a time so far. He is due for his next shot in a couple of weeks. I will double check the shot intervals with the vet on my next visit.
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