Dogs are wonderful companions that make our lives better by just being around them. They are caring, giving, loving and forgiving, all traits we sometimes wish more humans exhibited.

We try to make their lives as full as they make ours. Part of making their lives complete, however, is to look at life from their point of view and understand their needs as dogs, not just as human companions.

Walking dogs on a leash is beneficial, as it gives time for you and your dog to bond. You learn to communicate and understand what and what not to do. It’s a great way to get exercise for both you and your canine companion, and we have numerous parks where you can take a walk at your own pace.

But walking on a leash is not all they need. Dogs also love to run, play and socialize. If you walk your dog on a leash all the time, you are only giving them “part” of what they need. They need to work off their energy. Whether it’s chasing a ball, catching a Frisbee or playing “tag” with other dogs, it’s a treat for them to be free to do as they please.

Off leash dog parks give them that opportunity, and we have one of the best right here in Fountain Hills at the Desert Vista Dog Park. The Dog Park is a three-acre fenced-in area with separate facilities for large and small dogs. Some people say that it’s the reason they moved to Fountain Hills.

For responsible owners, dogs become our children and, just like children, they need to be taught. But they also need time to be able to act like dogs, too. They need both structure (leash) and freedom (off-leash), and they need owners that understand the difference.